To implement the Code on Industrial Relations, 2020 in the State, the Punjabi government has released the Draft Industrial Relations (Punjab) Rules, 2026. Procedures for trade unions, standing orders, dispute settlement, lockouts and strikes, retrenchment, layoffs, closure, and the inspection and enforcement mechanism are all outlined in the proposed rules. Before the guidelines are finalized, stakeholders are encouraged to voice any concerns or recommendations.

Key Impacts:

1. It gives Punjab a framework for putting the Code on Industrial Relations, 2020 into practice.

2. Outlines precise guidelines for trade union registration, termination, and recognition, including the notion of a negotiating union or negotiating council.

3. It provides clarity for covered businesses by establishing guidelines for model standing order certification, modification, and implementation.

4. Provides firms with regulatory clarity and openness by outlining paperwork, notice formats, and approval processes.

5. To expedite the resolution of disputes, time-bound mechanisms for conciliation, adjudication, and grievance redressal are established.

6. To preserve industrial harmony, uniform notice requirements and procedural protections are introduced.

7. Reduces discretion and increases openness by moving toward a web-based, risk-based inspection system.

8. Strengthens a compliance-oriented enforcement strategy by emphasizing monetary fines and compounding of offenses.

9. Subject to the applicable provisions, covers contract, temporary, permanent, and fixed-term employees.

Draft on Industrial Relations (Punjab) Rules, 2026.