Centre approves increased jail term/fine for non-payment of minimum wages

New Delhi, May 8 (IANS) The Centre has approved Delhi government's amendment to law for increased punishment for employers not paying minimum wages to workers, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said on Tuesday.

The Minimum Wages (Delhi) Amendment Act, 2017, was passed by the Delhi Assembly on August 10, 2017. It got the President's assent on April 23, according to a gazette notification.

The amendment, among others, ensures a punishment of three-year imprisonment or Rs 50,000 fine, or both, to erring employers instead of jail term that could extend to six months or a fine that could extend to Rs 500 or both earlier.

"Finally, the central government gives its approval after several months. This will act as a strong deterrent for employers who do not pay full minimum wages. The Delhi government will take strong action against such people," Kejriwal said in a tweet.

"Another big victory for workers' rights. After a two-and-a-half years' struggle, tough law made against those who do not pay minimum wages," Delhi Labour Minister Gopal Rai said in a tweet.

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