The Maharashtra government has published draft rules for new labour codes, inviting feedback from stakeholders for 45 days. These rules, dated April 28, aim to consolidate 29 existing laws into a modern framework that includes provisions for minimum wages, social security, and enhanced worker safety. Notably, they remove restrictions on women working night shifts and mandate facilities like crèches for larger establishments. However, labour unions have expressed strong opposition, particularly against increased thresholds for applicability, which they argue exclude many companies from the new protections. Additionally, they criticize the fixed-term employment clause and the requirement for a 14-day notice before strikes, claiming these measures weaken workers' rights. The government defends the reforms as necessary for creating an industry-friendly atmosphere, emphasizing that they will promote ease of doing business and align with the principle of 'minimum government, maximum governance.' State labour minister Akash Phundkar stated that the rules aim to enhance security for gig workers and clarify wage structures across various sectors.