The central government has issued a series of orders extending the designation of certain critical industries as “public utility services” under the Industrial Disputes Act, 1947. These orders were passed on 11th and 12th June, 2024.
The Industrial Disputes Act, 1947 allows the government to designate an industry as a public utility service for a limited period if it believes a strike or lockout would be detrimental to public welfare.
These industries are considered essential for national security and economic well-being. By designating them as public utilities, the government aims to prevent disruptions caused by labor strikes or lockouts.
The extensions apply to the following sectors:
- Nuclear Fuel, Heavy Water and Allied Chemicals and Atomic Energy Production (6 months from June 28th, 2024)
- Banking (6 months from June 15th, 2024)
- Defense (6 months from June 24th, 2024)
- Coal (6 months from June 28th, 2024)
These extensions are for a period of six months each. Similar designations were previously made for these sectors, and these orders represent renewals.
