The Punjab Labour Code 2026 has been introduced as a significant development to protect the rights of employees and workers across the province. The new legislation extends legal coverage to a wide range of sectors, including offices, shops, factories, households, the construction sector, agricultural activities, and those working through digital platforms.
The code prioritizes several key issues, such as minimum wages, timely payment of salaries, working hours, overtime compensation, leaves, termination of employment, discrimination, and workplace safety. According to the report, the law aims to protect workers' rights while clarifying the responsibilities of employers and institutions to ensure a dignified and safe working environment.
Under the new law, employees are granted legal recourse for issues involving delayed salaries, non-payment of overtime, and unlawful dismissal. Legal guidance states that if an employee is not paid wages, denied overtime compensation, or suddenly dismissed, they should first preserve evidence to support their claim.
Evidence that may be used includes an appointment letter, salary record, bank statement, attendance record, duty hours, WhatsApp messages, and a written dismissal order. An affected employee is advised to submit a written application to the employer or relevant institution, specifying the outstanding amount and the months or overtime hours involved.
It is also important to retain proof of submission or receipt of the application so that it can be presented during legal proceedings, if required. While a facility is available to register complaints through the Punjab Labour Helpline 1314 and seek guidance from the relevant Labour Department, workers are advised not to rely solely on a phone call and should follow the procedure for filing a formal written complaint and legal claim.
