Archive · 22 Jul 2026
PIL challenges narrow definition of workers under Social Security Code
A group called the National Campaign Committee for Central Legislation on Construction Labour (NCC-CL) and the Nirman Mazdoor Panchayat Sangam went to the Delhi High Court.
They are upset because a new law called the Code on Social Security, 2020, says only workers on big construction sites with more than 10 workers and projects costing over ₹50 lakh can get benefits.
This leaves out many workers on smaller sites.
Before, all workers could get benefits, no matter the size of the site.
The group says this is unfair and asks the court to change the law so all workers can get benefits again.
A PIL challenges the definition of 'building or other construction work' under the Code on Social Security, 2020.
The current definition excludes workers on small sites, leaving millions without social security benefits.
The petitioners argue that the new definition disproportionately affects workers who move between small and large construction sites.
The petitioners seek a declaration that the exclusionary portion of Section 2(6) is unconstitutional.
The Delhi High Court has issued notice to the Central government to respond to the petition.
- Who
- National Campaign Committee for Central Legislation on Construction Labour (NCC-CL) and the Nirman Mazdoor Panchayat Sangam
- What
- A PIL challenging the definition of 'building or other construction work' under the Code on Social Security, 2020
- When
- The Delhi High Court issued notice to the Central government on a public interest litigation (PIL) on Wednesday
- Where
- Delhi High Court
- Why
- The petitioners argue that the current definition excludes workers on small sites, leaving them without social security benefits.
Petitioners' Argument
Government's Stance
Definition of 'building or other construction work'
Petitioners' Argument
The definition excludes workers on small sites, leaving millions without social security benefits.
Government's Stance
The government has not yet responded to the petition, so its stance is unknown.
- Petitioners
- National Campaign Committee for Central Legislation on Construction Labour (NCC-CL) and the Nirman Mazdoor Panchayat Sangam
- Court
- Delhi High Court
- Section Challenged
- Section 2(6) of the Code on Social Security, 2020
- Current Definition
- Covers only workers employed at sites with 10 or more workers and projects valued at over ₹50 lakh
- Previous Act
- Building and Other Construction Workers Act, 1996
- Constitutional Articles Violated
- Articles 14, 19(1)(g), and 21