MARCH 21: In a significant move aimed at streamlining trade union activities across Jammu & Kashmir, Charandeep Singh, the Labour Commissioner and Registrar of Trade Unions, has issued show cause notices to trade unions that have failed to comply with mandatory legal requirements, particularly the submission of Annual Returns. This action marks a decisive step towards ensuring accountability and transparency in the functioning of trade unions within the region.
The Labour Commissioner’s directive follows an interactive meeting held at Shram Bhawan in Jammu, where trade union representatives from the Jammu division were brought together. During the meeting, Charandeep Singh emphasized the critical importance of adhering to the legal obligations stipulated under the Trade Unions Act, 1926. The Act, particularly Section 28, mandates that trade unions submit their Annual Returns on time, a requirement that some unions have failed to meet in recent years.
Singh made it clear that trade unions that fail to fulfill their statutory duties risk having their registration canceled. He urged unions to ensure that they maintain proper records, follow their by-laws diligently, protect the rights of their members, and conduct elections as per the prescribed guidelines. His comments highlighted the importance of upholding the legal standards that govern trade unions to ensure their effective and lawful operation.
The show cause notices have specifically been issued to inactive trade unions that have neglected to submit their Annual Returns for several years. These unions are now required to respond with an explanation within one month. If they fail to do so, their registration will be at risk of being canceled, which would limit their ability to operate legally within the region.
Trade unions have been instructed to submit their pending Annual Returns through the Single Window JK platform, which has been established to facilitate compliance with the Trade Unions Act, 1926. The portal provides a streamlined process for online submission, making it easier for trade unions to meet their legal obligations. Detailed instructions for submission are available on the platform.
The Labour Department reaffirmed its commitment to fostering a transparent, accountable, and well-regulated trade union environment in Jammu & Kashmir. The Labour Commissioner’s actions send a clear message to all trade unions about the need to maintain compliance with the legal requirements. Unions have been urged to take immediate corrective actions to avoid facing legal repercussions that could jeopardize their operations and member services.
