The Government of Jammu and Kashmir on March 23, 2026, issued the Draft Jammu and Kashmir Industrial Relation Rules, 2026.
The Jammu and Kashmir Government has issued draft rules under the Industrial Relations Code, 2020, with the objective of updating and consolidating the existing labour law framework in the Union Territory. These rules are framed using the powers under Section 99 of the Code, read with the General Clauses Act, 1897, and relevant central government notification. The proposed rules aim to regulate key areas such as trade unions, standing orders, and industrial dispute resolution in line with the modern labour code structure.
With the introduction of these draft rules, the Government proposes to replace the earlier 1972 regulations, namely the Trade Union Regulations, Industrial Employment (Standing Orders) Rules, and Industrial Disputes Rules applicable to Jammu and Kashmir. However, any actions taken or decisions made under the old rules prior to their supersession will remain valid and unaffected, ensuring continuity and legal certainty.
The draft notification has been pre-published for public consultation, as required under the law, to ensure transparency and stakeholder participation. A period of 45 days from the date of publication in the Official Gazette has been provided for individuals, trade unions, employers, and other stakeholders to submit their objections or suggestions regarding the proposed rules.
All feedback received within the stipulated period will be carefully examined by the Labour and Employment Department before finalizing the rules. This consultative approach ensures that the final framework is balanced, practical, and aligned with the needs of both employers and workers, while also supporting broader labour reforms and ease of doing business.
[Notification No. S.O. 72]
