Kerala to make registration mandatory for migrant workers

Discussion in this regard was going on with builders and the government plans to introduce the system from next January, state Labour Minister Shibu Baby John said during a 'Meet the Press' programme here.

The state's construction sector has also welcomed the move to a large extent and final modalities are being worked out, he said.

"Construction sector employs large number of migrant labourers in the state. Seeking to address their issues properly and know about their whereabouts, the government is planning to engage registered labourers only in the sector," the Minister said.

He said the government has also decided to introduce a "safety plan" to ensure the rights of labourers are not violated in view of complaints about poor working conditions and mishaps on construction sites.

"As per the plan, builders should submit a 'safety plan', along with the building plan to get sanction for construction. The safety plan should have details of of the safety measures to ensure the security of workers," he said.

A safety audit would be conducted to investigate whether the measures mentioned in the plan are implemented properly. "If any mishap happens even after that, a case will be registered against the builder," he said.

According to unofficial estimates, more than 10 lakh migrants are working in the state in different sectors.