The Contract Labour (Regulation and Abolition) Act, 1970 regulates the employment and working conditions of contract labour in India, aiming to prevent exploitation and ensure better working conditions. The Act covers various aspects of employment, including licensing of contractors, registration of establishments, wage fixation, welfare facilities, and prohibition of certain practices.
Licensing of Contractors:
Contractors must obtain a license from the Licensing Authority, which specifies conditions for working hours, wage fixation, and amenities for contract labour.
Registration of Establishments:
Principal employers must register their establishments and engage contract labour only through licensed contractors.
Wage Fixation and Payment:
The Act mandates that contractors are responsible for paying wages to contract labour, and principal employers are responsible for ensuring fair wages are paid.
Welfare Facilities:
Principal employers are responsible for ensuring contract labourers receive basic amenities like canteens, drinking water, rest rooms, and first aid facilities.
Prohibition of Certain Practices:
The Act prohibits employing contract labour for perennial or permanent work, and it prohibits discriminatory labor practices.
Maintenance of Records:
Principal employers and contractors must maintain registers and records of contract labour, including particulars of employment, wages, and working conditions.
Display of Notices:
Establishments must display notices in English and the local language with details about working hours, wages, and the Inspector's contact information.
Inspection and Enforcement:
The Act empowers inspectors to enforce compliance with its provisions and address grievances of contract labour.
Abolition of Contract Labour:
The Act also allows the government to prohibit the employment of contract labour in certain circumstances, such as when it's deemed that the work is of a perennial nature or can be performed by regular workers.