Nokku
Kooli, which literally translates into 'gawking wage or fees', is a localised
term used to refer to the money extortion done by organised labour unions in
the state. Under this unwritten law, wages have to be paid to trade union
workers for loading and unloading works carried out by other workers or by machines.
This practice has received criticism from all quarters for its futility and
senselessness, and was considered a product of militant trade unionism that
often led to constant fights between workers and businessmen.
The order from the State brought a huge
relief to thousands of businessmen who found it difficult to cope with
overcharging and Nokku Kooli by organised trade unions. Gawking fee was also
seen as a thorn in the flesh in entrepreneurship development in the
state. Passing an order against a sensitive practice, the government
intends to make Kerala a place friendly and convenient to build a house, shift
home, set up a small production unit or trade in some ware or the other for a
living.
After the government order is out,
loading workers and others can now only ask for the wages set by the district
labour officers. For workers who are not listed, their hirers can pay them
based on bi-party agreement. The order also gives the freedom to the people to
select the workers of their choice when it comes to jobs like loading,
unloading and farming.
The order further states that if the
trade union workers are employed, their wages can be paid as per rate set by
the government. the State also sent out stringent warnings to trade unions
against demanding more money or extorting money for simply looking at works.
The ruling was well received by key trade unions such as Centre of Indian Trade
Unions (CITU) of the ruling CPI(M) and Indian National Trade Union Congress
(INTUC) of the opposition Congress.
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