Filing NIL Returns for Zero Employees: How to Handle Karnataka Wage and Benefit Rules?

Annual Returns under Karnataka MWR, POW & MBR

Can we file the NIL returns separately in Form III under Minimum Wage Rules, Form VI under Payment of Wages Rules, and Form L under Maternity Benefit Rules? The reason is that the number of employees is zero.

Regards

Establishment vs. Factory: Filing Annual Returns

FYI, this is an establishment, not a factory. Here at X Co., we have three branches (a, b & c). For branches a & b, we have already filed the Form U annual returns. However, for branch c, we can't file the return because the employees working in that premises are included in the annual return of branch b. The reason is that the employees spend most of their time at the b premises, and the register records are maintained at branch b only.

In this case, can we submit the NIL returns for branch c? Please clarify.

Branch Identity and Employee Return Details

All three branches have different identities; I mean the establishment licenses. If so, how can a C branch employee's return details go into B branch returns?

Regards,
Praveen Bhosale

Applicability of Various Acts

FYI, the C branch has not taken any license; hence, the act is not applicable. The Shop Act is not applicable because it is not a notified area. However, the Minimum Wage Act, Payment of Wage Act, Maternity Benefit Act, and other allied acts are applicable. There are no rules to obtain a license for the above-mentioned acts, except for the Shop Act and the Contract Labour Act.

Regards,
Bharath

If it is not covered under the Shop and Establishment Act, then there is no need to file the returns. Can you explain why the Shop and Establishment Act is not applicable? If you provide this information, it will be easier for me to assist you.

Regards,
Praveen

Non-Notified Areas in Karnataka

In Karnataka, some areas are treated as non-notified areas. In those particular regions, there is no need to register under the Shop Act.

Regards,
Bharath S

When your shop is not registered, I don't think you need to submit the returns as you mentioned. In which area/district is your shop located? I also worked in Bangalore and Belgaum.

Regards,
Praveen