Goa Government Unveils Draft Labour Rules 2026
The Goa state government has drafted the Goa Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions (Labour) Rules, 2026, with the aim of strengthening worker safety, protecting labour rights, and simplifying compliance for businesses by streamlining multiple labour laws. The draft rules, which are aligned with central labour laws, have been placed in the public domain. The government has invited objections and suggestions from stakeholders within 30 days before finalisation.
Key Provisions of the Draft Rules
Under the proposed rules, registration fees for establishments will vary based on the number of employees. Units employing up to 10 workers will have to pay a fee of Rs 3,200, while establishments with over 401 employees will be required to pay Rs 1.2 lakh. The draft mandates that employers report fatal accidents or dangerous occurrences within 24 hours to the chief inspector-cum-facilitator, the nearest police station, and the victim’s family members.
Safeguards for Women Employees
The rules also propose specific safeguards for women employees working before 6am or after 7pm. These include mandatory transport facilities, well-lit workplaces, and CCTV surveillance near toilets, washrooms, and drinking water facilities. Employers must ensure safe, secure, and healthy working conditions and comply with the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace Act, 2013.
Contractor Licensing Conditions
The draft further states that contractors seeking licences should not be undischarged insolvents or have criminal convictions in the past two years involving imprisonment exceeding three months. This provision aims to ensure that only eligible and trustworthy contractors operate in the state.
The government has encouraged all stakeholders to review the draft rules and submit their feedback within the stipulated 30-day period. The final rules are expected to be implemented after considering public input.
