Minister Calls for Study on Labour Concerns at Vizhinjam Port

Rapid Summary

• Labor Minister V. Sivankutty has assigned Additional Labour Commissioner K.M.Sunil to conduct a detailed study on labour issues at Vizhinjam port.
• Teh decision followed trade union complaints about headload workers being denied work at the port.
• Unions requested measures to allow headload workers to continue their jobs in areas under Customs jurisdiction.
• Port authorities stated that suitable jobs would be provided for headload workers during the second phase of port development.
• The study will examine:

– Job sectors and workforce data as per the Kerala Headload Workers Act.
– Contractors employing these workers and areas of potential job loss.

• The study report is to be submitted within a month; in the meantime, status quo will be maintained regarding worker arrangements.
• Attendees of the meeting included Labour Secretary K. Vasuki, Vizhinjam International Seaport Ltd. MD Divya S. Iyer,trade union representatives,and other officials.

Indian Opinion Analysis

The Kerala government’s proactive approach reflects sensitivity towards labour welfare amidst rapid infrastructure development at Vizhinjam port. By commissioning a thorough report on employment patterns and potential disruptions, authorities aim to address both trade unions’ apprehensions about job security and operational needs of the developing seaport.

Maintaining status quo until findings are analyzed reinforces a commitment to balanced decision-making while preventing immediate disruptions for affected workers. Though, with infrastructure projects frequently enough transforming local economies, this issue underscores broader challenges India faces in balancing modernization with inclusivity in its labour policies-finding ways for all parties involved to adapt meaningfully without sidelining specific communities.

Read more: July 26, 2025