In a significant move towards enhancing workplace safety and labour rights, the Union Territory Administration of Lakshadweep has released the Draft Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions (Lakshadweep) Rules, 2025. The draft rules, published by the Department of Labour, Employment & Training, are now open for public comments and suggestions for a period of 45 days, i.e., until 5:00 PM on the specified closing date.
This step aligns with the Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Code, 2020, a Central labour code aimed at consolidating and simplifying India’s multiple labour laws into one integrated framework.
🔍 Key Highlights of the Draft Rules
✅ 1. Scope & Applicability
- Rules will be applicable across the entire UT of Lakshadweep.
- Will come into effect from the date of final publication in the Official Gazette.
📝 2. Establishment Registration Process
- Employers must apply for registration through Form-I on the Shram Suvidha Portal.
- Applications require uploading key documents including identity proof and establishment details.
- PAN or other unique identifiers may be verified online.
- Registration is to be issued electronically within 7 days, failing which it will be deemed auto-approved.
📜 3. Certificate of Registration
- Issued in Form-II and must be displayed at the premises.
- Non-transferable.
- Incorrect information can lead to cancellation, but only after the opportunity to show cause is provided.
🔄 4. Updates & Cancellations
- Changes in management/ownership must be updated within 30 days.
- Employers can apply for cancellation of registration online upon closure, only after clearing all statutory dues and submitting a self-certification.
📆 5. Notice of Work Commencement/Cessation
- Employers must notify Inspector-cum-Facilitator using Form-IV, including start/completion dates of work.
- Notification will be auto-shared with EPFO and ESIC.
⚖️ 6. Appeals Process
- Appeals against Registering Officer’s decisions can be made electronically within 30 days.
- Affected parties will be notified and given a hearing.
- Appeals must be disposed of within 30 days of receipt.
🚫 7. Compounding of Offences
- Specified officer can issue compounding notice electronically.
- Offenders can pay the amount within 15 days to avoid prosecution.
- A Compounding Certificate will be issued upon payment.
- No prosecution will occur unless opportunity for compliance/compounding is provided.
📮 Public Participation Invited
The UT Administration encourages stakeholders, including employers, workers, legal experts, trade unions, and the general public, to participate in shaping the final version of these critical rules.
Feedback Deadline: Within 45 days of issuance , from September 18th 2025.
Submission Modes:
- Registered Post
(Specific contact details/address to be included in final notice)
📢 Conclusion
The Draft OSHWC (Lakshadweep) Rules, 2025 mark a crucial step in implementing safe, transparent, and accountable working conditions in the island territory. With digital-first processes, emphasis on self-certification, and clearly defined appeal mechanisms, the administration aims to foster ease of doing business while safeguarding worker welfare.
Stakeholders are urged to review the draft thoroughly and submit their views to help build a more effective and inclusive labour framework in Lakshadweep.