New Delhi

In a key administrative move aimed at ensuring uniform implementation of labour laws, President Droupadi Murmu has authorised the Administrators and Lieutenant Governors of all Union Territories to exercise the powers and discharge the functions of the “appropriate government” under the Industrial Relations Code, 2020.

The directive, issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs on January 2, has been notified under clause (1) of Article 239 of the Constitution and supersedes earlier notifications dated January 16, 2023, and June 22, 2023.

However, the notification clarifies that actions already taken or omitted under the previous notifications will remain unaffected, ensuring continuity and legal certainty.

As per the order, the Administrators or Lieutenant Governors of the National Capital Territory of Delhi, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu, Chandigarh, Puducherry, Lakshadweep, Ladakh and Jammu and Kashmir will, subject to the control of the President and until further orders, exercise the powers of the appropriate government or state government under the Industrial Relations Code, 2020.

The powers will apply in areas where the respective Union Territories are required to function as the appropriate government under the law.

The Industrial Relations Code, 2020, consolidates and amends laws relating to trade unions, conditions of employment in industrial establishments, and the resolution of industrial disputes. Clear administrative authority is crucial for its effective implementation, particularly in Union Territories where governance structures differ from those of states.

Officials said the latest directive removes ambiguity over statutory authority in Union Territories, enabling smoother administration, faster decision-making and more effective handling of industrial relations issues.

The move is also expected to benefit employers, workers and trade unions by providing a clearly defined authority for registrations, approvals and dispute resolution.

The order reinforces the constitutional framework governing Union Territories, where Administrators and Lieutenant Governors act on behalf of the President. By vesting them with defined powers under the labour code, the Centre aims to ensure consistent application of labour laws while retaining presidential oversight.

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The decision forms part of the government’s broader efforts to streamline governance and strengthen the implementation of major legislative reforms, especially as labour codes are gradually being operationalised across the country.