Legal Framework
Code on Wages, 2019 — prohibits discrimination in hiring and mandates equal pay for equal work regardless of gender
Industrial Relations Code, 2020 — treats retaliatory termination or adverse action against employees raising gender-based grievances as wrongful dismissal
Social Security Code, 2020 — safeguards maternity benefits and ensures equal access to social security schemes without bias
Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Code, 2020 — obligates employers to provide a safe, dignified workplace free from harassment, aligning with the POSH Act, 2013
Legal Remedies
Reinstatement and back wages — Labour Courts/Industrial Tribunals can order reinstatement with back wages and continuity of service for discriminatory termination
Compensation and damages — for wage loss, mental distress, and career harm, including punitive damages for willful or malicious discrimination
Equal pay enforcement — claiming wage parity and recovering arrears under the Code on Wages, 2019
Maternity and social security protection — reinstatement, benefits, and damages under the Social Security Code, 2020 for women denied maternity benefits or dismissed due to pregnancy
Workplace safety and harassment remedies — escalation under the OSH Code, 2020 and POSH Act, 2013, with ICC powers to recommend compensation, transfer, or termination of the harasser
Regulatory escalation — complaints before the Labour Commissioner, State Labour Department, or Industrial Tribunals, with writ jurisdiction before High Courts under Articles 14, 15, 16, and 21
Criminal liability — prosecution under IPC provisions and POSH Act penalties where conduct amounts to a criminal offence
How We Can Help
Legal advisory — guidance on rights under the Labour Codes and POSH Act
Complaint filing — drafting and submitting complaints to ICC, Labour Commissioner, or Tribunals
Representation before labour courts and regulatory bodies
Equal pay and benefits — claims for wage parity, arrears, and maternity benefits
Workplace safety — support in harassment cases and ensuring safe work conditions
Litigation and remedies — pursuing reinstatement, compensation, and damages
Negotiated settlements — securing fair outcomes without prolonged disputes
Awareness training — educating employees on rights and compliance safeguards
