The committee also expressed concern over reports that some port managements are attempting to implement provisions in the labour codes that could enable hire-and-fire policies, termination of existing contract workers, and reduction in wages

The National Coordination Committee of Port and Dock Workers Federations has urged port managements to refrain from implementing the new labour codes, warning of intensified agitation if worker concerns remain unaddressed.

At a recent meeting held in Mumbai, the committee directed workers to chalk out suitable protest plans at individual ports. The federations strongly opposed the outsourcing of core port activities and criticised the move to limit contract workers’ wages to minimum wage levels, arguing that port operations demand multiple skills and higher qualifications.

They maintained that contract workers in the port sector deserve wages on par with regular workers, considering the nature and complexity of their duties.

The committee also expressed concern over reports that some port managements are attempting to implement provisions in the labour codes that could enable hire-and-fire policies, termination of existing contract workers, and reduction in wages.

C D Nandakumar, president of the Water Transport Workers Federation of India, who attended the meeting, said port and dock workers across major ports have decided to intensify their agitation against what they termed as “anti-worker” labour reforms.

Key provisions

The committee noted that several key provisions of the existing statutory settlement are yet to be implemented, even as it is set to expire in December 2026.

Trade unions pointed out that they had deferred a proposed strike on February 12 following a request from the Indian Ports Association, which had assured discussions to address workers’ demands. However, the unions alleged that the management has failed to honour its commitments so far.

In response, the committee has decided to launch a 45-day campaign across major ports, protesting against various anti-labour initiatives. The campaign will culminate in a nationwide protest by port workers on May 21.

The committee also raised concerns over the escalating war situation in West Asia and its impact on the port and shipping sector, particularly seafarers stranded in the Strait of Hormuz.

The unions urged the Union Government, the International Transport Workers’ Federation, and the International Maritime Organization to take urgent steps to ensure the safe evacuation of seafarers, irrespective of the flag of their vessels.

Published on April 15, 2026