India has begun enforcing major labour reforms, despite strong resistance from workers’ unions across the country.
The new laws include overhauling employment rules, making it easier for companies to hire and fire workers, restructuring wage systems, and changing regulations on working hours and employee protections.
Trade unions staged nationwide protests, accusing the government of pushing the reforms without proper consultation and warning that the changes will weaken workers’ rights and job security.
The government, however, insists that the reforms are necessary to boost economic growth, attract more investment, and reduce bureaucratic bottlenecks that have slowed down industries for years.
Analysts say the tension between the government and labour unions could further strain industrial relations, as the country watches how the new labour codes will play out in practice.