On January 3, 2025, the Government of Meghalaya officially notified the Draft Code on Social Security Meghalaya Rules 2024, under the provisions of Sections 154 and 156 of the Code on Social Security, 2020.
The government has published the draft for public review, inviting suggestions and objections from those who might be affected by the new regulations.
Key Details of the Draft Rules :
The Draft Code on Social Security Meghalaya Rules 2024 seeks to establish a comprehensive framework for providing social security benefits to employees in the state. These rules are intended to enhance the welfare of workers by ensuring that they have access to critical benefits like insurance, compensation, gratuity, maternity leave, and more.
Timeline for Public Feedback :
The Meghalaya government has set a 45-day period, beginning from January 3, 2025, for stakeholders to submit their objections and suggestions. After this period, the state government will review the feedback and consider making necessary adjustments before finalizing the rules.
How to Submit Feedback :
Individuals and organizations are encouraged to submit their comments or objections to the Deputy Secretary, Department of Labour, Employment and Skill Development in Shillong. Alternatively, feedback can be sent by email to labourdeptt.sectt@gmail.com.
Key Provisions of the Draft Rules :
The rules cover a wide range of provisions that are aimed at improving the social security system for workers in Meghalaya. Below are the key chapters included in the draft:
Chapter II: Social Security Organisations
This chapter outlines the organizations responsible for implementing and overseeing social security schemes for employees.
Chapter III: Employees’ Insurance Court
Specifies the role and responsibilities of the court in handling disputes related to employees’ insurance claims.
Chapter IV: Gratuity
Details the provisions for gratuity payments to employees as part of their retirement or termination benefits.
Chapter V: Maternity Benefit
Establishes provisions for maternity benefits, ensuring that female employees have access to paid leave and other benefits during pregnancy and childbirth.
Chapter VI: Employee’s Compensation
Sets out guidelines for compensating employees who are injured at work or who suffer from work-related illnesses.
Chapter VII: Social Security and Cess in Respect of Building and Other Construction Workers
Addresses the specific social security needs of workers in the construction industry, including the imposition of cess to fund social security benefits.
Chapter VIII: Finance and Accounts
Provides details on how the finances related to social security schemes will be managed, including budgeting, accounting, and auditing.
Chapter IX: Authorities for Assessment, Compliance & Recovery
Outlines the authorities responsible for assessing compliance with social security regulations, and for recovering dues from employers who fail to comply.
Chapter X: Offences and Penalties
Lists the offences related to non-compliance with the social security rules and the penalties that will be imposed on violators.
Chapter XI: Employment Information and Monitoring
Establishes a system for monitoring employment trends and ensuring that workers are benefiting from available social security schemes.
Chapter XII: Miscellaneous
Covers additional provisions and conditions that apply across the social security system.
Introduction of New Forms
Importance of the Draft Rules:
The Draft Code on Social Security Meghalaya Rules 2024 represents a significant step towards improving the social security framework for workers in the state. By ensuring that workers are covered by insurance, compensated for work-related injuries, and provided with maternity benefits, the rules aim to enhance the overall welfare of the workforce. The inclusion of provisions for specific sectors like construction workers highlights the government’s commitment to protecting vulnerable groups.
PUBLIC CONSULTATION :
The government is encouraging all affected stakeholders—including businesses, employees, and trade unions—to review the draft rules and submit objections or suggestions within the 45-day review period (February 17 , 2025). This is an opportunity for individuals and organizations to contribute to shaping the final version of these important regulations.
