I came from another state to work in Kolkata and my contractor is not paying minimum wage, what protections do I have?
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Below is a comprehensive legal analysis based on Indian law for your question.
Inter-state migrant workmen are protected under the Inter-State Migrant Workmen Act, 1979, and the West Bengal Premises Tenancy Act 1997 rules which operationalize its enforcement in your state. The contractor who brought you to Kolkata must obtain a licence, issue you a passbook with wage details, and pay a displacement allowance and journey allowance. The Calcutta High Court has held that migrant workmen are entitled to the same minimum wage and conditions as local workmen, and the principal employer is liable for any shortfall. You should approach the Labour Commissioner or the Inter-State Migrant Workmen's Inspector in Kolkata with your passbook and wage records. The law also provides for residential accommodation, medical facilities, and equal pay for equal work. Non-compliance by the contractor attracts prosecution and cancellation of licence.
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