Thiruvananthapuram, November 27, 2025 – Kerala has firmly decided not to implement the Central Labour Codes, despite the Union government’s push for uniform labour reforms across the country. Kerala Labour Minister V Sivankutty clarified the state’s position on Thursday, asserting that while many other states have taken steps toward implementing the codes, Kerala has maintained its independent stance and will continue to protect workers’ rights according to its own framework.

Addressing reporters in Thiruvananthapuram, Minister Sivankutty emphasized that Kerala’s refusal is deliberate and principled, not a result of any political or administrative pressure from the Centre. “If we were succumbing to central government pressure, we would have sent a letter accepting the codes. We have not done that,” he said, reinforcing the state government’s commitment to safeguarding labour rights.

The issue of the Central Labour Codes has been a contentious one across India. The Union Labour Ministry notified four labour codes in 2025, completing reforms that had been pending since 2020. These codes aim to introduce universal social security coverage for gig and platform workers, mandatory appointment letters for all employees, statutory minimum wages, and timely wage payments across sectors, among other measures. While many states have initiated steps to adopt the codes, Kerala has consistently expressed reservations, citing concerns that certain provisions may not align with the state’s pro-worker policies.

Minister Sivankutty pointed out that the Union Labour Ministry had convened a meeting of state labour ministers last month to discuss the implementation of the codes. During the meeting, Kerala explicitly reiterated its decision not to implement the Central Labour Codes, making its stand clear to the Centre and other states. He clarified that Kerala’s decision is rooted in protection of workers’ rights and labour welfare, and not influenced by external pressures.

When asked about the draft regulations linked to the labour codes that had been notified in Kerala on December 14, 2021, Sivankutty denied any secretive or unilateral processes in their preparation. He explained that the draft was created transparently, with recommendations in official files suggesting that public opinion be sought. However, no further action has been taken on the draft in the last three years, and all subsequent procedures have been formally halted.

“The draft regulations were prepared openly, but no further steps have been taken in the last three years. Therefore, there is no need for concern about their implementation,” the minister added, reiterating the state’s commitment to workers’ welfare.

Sivankutty also assured that Kerala would never adopt an anti-worker stance while considering labour reforms. To ensure workers’ voices are heard, he announced that the state government would convene meetings with central trade union representatives to discuss matters related to the labour codes. Furthermore, a proposal is under consideration to organize a labour conclave in Thiruvananthapuram during the third week of December, providing a platform for extensive discussions on labour rights and policies in the state.

Labour experts and trade union leaders in Kerala have welcomed the state’s stance, noting that the Central Labour Codes, while progressive in some areas, may not always align with Kerala’s well-established worker protection mechanisms. The state’s approach emphasizes dialogue, consultation, and public participation, in contrast to a blanket adoption of central regulations.

This decision by Kerala comes at a time when labour reforms are being widely debated in India, with the Union government encouraging states to adopt a uniform framework for employment rights, social security, and wage protection. Kerala, however, continues to assert that its pro-worker orientation and participatory approach must guide any labour legislation in the state.

By halting the implementation of the Central Labour Codes, Kerala signals a preference for state-specific labour policiesthat take into account local employment practices, workers’ conditions, and the broader socio-economic environment of the state. The move is likely to generate discussion among policymakers, labour organizations, and employers, highlighting the tension between central standardization and state autonomy in labour governance.

Minister Sivankutty’s announcement reaffirms Kerala’s independent stance on labour governance, while maintaining the state’s commitment to protecting worker rights, promoting social dialogue, and encouraging participatory policy-making. As discussions with trade unions and stakeholders proceed, Kerala continues to position itself as a state that prioritizes the welfare of its workforce while balancing the pressures of national-level labour reforms.

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