The Government of Madhya Pradesh has issued draft Madhya Pradesh Industrial Relations Rules, 2026 under the Industrial Relations Code, 2020, proposing to replace the existing state rules on industrial disputes, trade unions, and standing orders. These draft rules aim to align the State’s industrial relations framework with the new central labour code, streamline procedures, enable electronic processes, and strengthen structured employer–worker dialogue. Public objections and suggestions have been invited within 45 days from the date of Gazette publication.

Key Impacts:

Existing MP rules under the Industrial Disputes Act, Trade Unions Act, and Standing Orders framework will be superseded and merged under a single ruleset aligned with the Industrial Relations Code, 2020.
Rules will apply across Madhya Pradesh to establishments where the State Government is the appropriate authority.
Definitions are harmonised with the Code, ensuring uniform interpretation and reduced ambiguity.
Electronic submission, online portals, and digital payments are formally recognised, improving compliance efficiency.
Written agreements between employers and workers before Conciliation Officers must follow a prescribed format.
Clear provisions on constitution, representation, and functioning of Works Committees promote structured bipartite engagement.
Worker representatives must be equal to or more than employer representatives, ensuring fairness.
Registered trade unions gain proportional representation, with dispute resolution mechanisms through the Labour Commissioner.
Mandatory public consultation allows stakeholders to influence the final rules before notification.

Madhya Pradesh Industrial Relations Rules, 2026 (Draft)