On January 3, 2025, the Department of Labour, Employment and Skill Development of Meghalaya issued the Draft Code on Wages Meghalaya Rules 2024.
These rules are drafted under the powers conferred by Section 67 of the Code on Wages, 2019 (Central Act No. 29 of 2019) and supersede older regulations, including the Assam Payment of Wages Rules, 1937 and Assam Minimum Wages Rules, 1952, which were adapted for use in Meghalaya in 1974.
The rules also repeal earlier acts like the Payment of Wages Act, 1936 and Minimum Wages Act, 1948.
Key Details of the Draft Rules:
The Draft Code on Wages Meghalaya Rules 2024 outlines the framework for determining and ensuring fair wages for employees across different sectors in the state. The rules aim to bring about a more transparent and structured approach to wage determination, payment, and disputes, replacing outdated legislation with a modernized system.
Timeline for Public Feedback:
As part of the standard process for implementing new regulations, the draft rules will be open for public review for 45 days from the date of publication (January 3, 2025). During this period, stakeholders, including employees, employers, and trade unions, are encouraged to submit their objections or suggestions regarding the draft rules.
How to Submit Feedback:
Objections and suggestions should be sent to the Deputy Secretary, Department of Labour, Employment and Skill Development, Secretariat Hills, Shillong, or by email to labourdeptt.sectt@gmail.com.
Key Provisions of the Draft Rules:
The rules cover a wide range of areas related to wage determination, payment, and compliance. Below are the key chapters included in the draft:
Manner of Calculating Minimum Rate of Wages
This section specifies how the minimum wage for workers will be calculated, ensuring that wages are fair and aligned with industry standards and living costs.
Chapter II: Minimum Wages
Establishes the general guidelines for setting the minimum wage rates across various sectors, ensuring workers are paid at least the minimum wage as stipulated by the state government.
Chapter III: Manner of Fixing and Revising Floor Wage
This chapter outlines how the “floor wage” (the lowest allowable wage in certain sectors) will be fixed and revised over time to keep up with changes in the economy and cost of living.
Chapter IV: Payment of Wages
Specifies the methods and timelines for the payment of wages to employees, ensuring timely and transparent payment practices by employers.
Chapter V: State Advisory Board
This chapter defines the role of the State Advisory Board, which will assist in setting and revising wage rates, and provide guidance on wage-related matters.
Chapter VI: Payment of Dues, Claims, etc.
Outlines the process for addressing unpaid wages, claims, and disputes related to wages, including how employees can seek redress and how employers must comply with payment obligations.
Chapter VII: Forms, Registers, and Wage Slips
This chapter introduces new forms, registers, and requirements for maintaining wage-related records, such as wage slips, to ensure proper documentation and compliance.
Chapter VIII: Miscellaneous
Contains various other provisions relating to the application of the Code on Wages in Meghalaya, including any additional guidelines or clarifications.
Schedule A:
In addition to the chapters, the rules also include Schedule A
PUBLIC CONSULTATION :
The government is inviting feedback from all affected stakeholders. Employers, employees, trade unions, and industry groups are encouraged to review the draft rules and submit any objections or suggestions before the 45-day deadline. This public review process ensures that the final rules are comprehensive and balanced, addressing the needs of both employers and workers.
