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Thanks to LDF Govt, Kerala is a Gawking-Wage free state

The past five years saw the Kerala Government showcase the courage to act on sensitive issues that led to frequent conflicts in the state. The ban on Nooku Kooli or 'gawking wage' has been one such measure that came as a jolt to trade unions who charged hirers for just looking while others worked. Making this obsolete gawking wage practice unlawful, the government made the all-important step to transform Kerala as an investment-friendly destination 

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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