RIGHT TO WORK IN INDIA
“The Right to Work in India has evolved from a Directive Principle into a statutory entitlement, but recent changes raise concerns about its accessibility and enforceability.” Discuss.
Model Answer
Introduction
The Right to Work is recognised under Article 41 as a Directive Principle, while the Supreme Court has linked the right to livelihood with Article 21.
Evolution & Concerns
- MGNREGA, 2005: Provided a demand-driven guarantee of 100 days of rural employment.
- VB-G RAM G Act: Raises the guarantee to 125 days, but introduces a 60-day seasonal blackout and greater State financial responsibility.
- Constitutional concern: Conditional access may weaken the universality of employment protection.
- Fiscal burden: 60:40 Centre-State funding may strain poorer States.
- Wage concern: Sub-minimum scheme wages raise issues under Article 23.
- Digital exclusion: Biometric authentication may exclude genuine beneficiaries.
Way Forward
- Ensure adequate funding + timely wages + universal accessibility + safeguards against digital exclusion + wages consistent with minimum-wage principles.
Conclusion
The Right to Work should evolve from a Directive Principle to meaningful livelihood security, while balancing State capacity with the constitutional commitment to dignity and social justice.