10. Discuss the concept of wages. What is the Constitutional goal with regard to wages?

In every society, wages form the backbone of economic survival for the working class. In India, the discussion around wages goes beyond economics—it touches on human dignity, social justice, and the right to life. Therefore, when we discuss the concept of wages and the Constitutional goal with regard to wages, we tap into a subject that is both deeply legal and profoundly human.

India’s wage framework is designed to ensure that every worker gets fair, reasonable, and just compensation. The Indian Constitution actively supports this principle through various directives. But to fully understand this framework, it is important to break it down into key components: the definition of wages, the classification of wages, and the constitutional and legal backing.

Understanding the Concept of Wages

Wages are defined under Section 2(h) of the Minimum Wages Act, 1948. According to this section, wages mean all remuneration expressed in terms of money that an employer pays to an employee for the work done. This includes basic pay, dearness allowance, and house rent allowance but excludes bonuses, PF contributions, and gratuity.

When we discuss the concept of wages and the Constitutional goal with regard to wages, we need to explore not just the legal definition but also its types:

• Minimum Wages: The lowest remuneration an employer can legally pay.
• Fair Wages: Higher than minimum wages, these are adjusted to the industry standard and employer’s capacity to pay.
• Living Wages: Wages that allow a decent standard of life including education, health, and social security.

The Equal Remuneration Act, 1976 also ensures that men and women receive equal pay for equal work, reinforcing the dignity of labour across genders.

Constitutional Backing of Wages in India

The Constitution of India lays down a clear mandate for ensuring economic justice through fair wages. Let us now discuss the concept of wages and the Constitutional goal with regard to wages in the context of these Articles:

• Article 14: Ensures equality before the law and prohibits wage discrimination.
• Article 15(3): Allows the state to make special provisions for women and children—often used to legislate maternity benefits and equal pay.
• Article 16: Provides for equality of opportunity in public employment, indirectly affecting wage structures.
• Article 21: Guarantees the right to life and personal liberty, which includes the right to live with dignity—a principle tied closely to adequate wages.
• Directive Principles of State Policy:
  • Article 38: Promotes welfare by securing a social order for justice.
  • Article 39(a): Directs the State to ensure citizens have the right to adequate means of livelihood.
  • Article 39(d): Demands equal pay for equal work for both men and women.
  • Article 41: Talks about the right to work, education, and public assistance.
  • Article 43: Advocates for a living wage, ensuring a decent standard of life for workers.

Together, these articles reinforce the idea that discussing the concept of wages and the Constitutional goal with regard to wages is vital for achieving the vision of a just and equitable society.

Judicial Support for Wage Justice

The Indian judiciary has consistently protected wage rights. The Supreme Court in Workmen v. Management of Raptakos Brett & Co. held that living wages are essential for preserving human dignity. In Randhir Singh v. Union of India, the Court upheld the principle of equal pay for equal work as part of the Constitution’s spirit.

Thus, when we discuss the concept of wages and the Constitutional goal with regard to wages, we see not just laws on paper but their real-world impact being enforced through judicial activism.

Legislations Governing Wages in India

Several legislations have been enacted to implement the Constitutional directives:

1. Minimum Wages Act, 1948 – Sets minimum wage limits across sectors.
2. Payment of Wages Act, 1936 – Ensures timely and full payment without deductions.
3. Equal Remuneration Act, 1976 – Prevents gender-based wage discrimination.
4. Code on Wages, 2019 – Replaces earlier laws with a uniform wage code.

These laws aim to regulate wage practices, ensuring every worker gets paid fairly, securely, and on time. These acts reflect the broader goal when we discuss the concept of wages and the Constitutional goal with regard to wages—economic justice.

Constitutional Goal with Regard to Wages

The Constitutional goal with regard to wages is clear: ensure every worker receives fair compensation that promotes not just survival, but dignity, equality, and well-being. This aligns with India’s vision of a socialist welfare state.

In simple terms, the Constitution aims to:

• Eliminate exploitation.
• Provide equal opportunity and pay.
• Encourage a decent standard of living.
• Secure the welfare of workers and their families.

When we discuss the concept of wages and the Constitutional goal with regard to wages, we realize this isn’t just about rupees and paise—it’s about the foundation of economic democracy.

Mnemonic to Remember Key Concepts:

WAGES

• W – Welfare of workers (Article 38)
• A – Adequate means of livelihood (Article 39(a))
• G – Gender equality in pay (Article 39(d))
• E – Equal opportunity (Article 16)
• S – Social justice via living wage (Article 43)