Evolution of Beedi and Cigar Workers in Respect of Shankar Balaji Waje Case

Abstract

Beedi and Cigar worker constitutes a large chunk of working population, it becomes necessary to critically examine the applicability of labor laws on their working condition. In various cases, the workers working in Beedi factories are not even considered as workers. Labor laws are made with the objective to safeguard workers’ right and make employment more secure for the labors. Furthermore, they ensure fair and reasonable working conditions against exploitation. They ensure employment
related disputes are solved by statutory body recognized by State. Therefore, in this paper we will look into various judgements and statutes to determine whether Beedi and Cigar workers also considered as workers or not, in India. We found that there was no clarity in the judgements as to who would be categorized as workers. Consequently, the act came which clearly brought Beedi and Cigar workers under the purview of definition of workers. Hence, the four new codes consider Beedi and Cigar workers
as workers. It is the clear intention of the legislature that the labor laws are made for the betterment of all the classes of labor and to uplift the quality of livelihood among all the working class. From now onwards, every worker working in the factory involved in the manufacturing of Beedi and Cigar will get all the benefits like paid leaves, job security, provident fund, and many more.