Is It Necessary to Get Separate ESI Sub-Codes for Different Offices in Delhi? Seeking Advice on Statutory Requirements

I want to know the basis of allotment of ESI Subcode. We are a Delhi-based company and have an ESI Code. For our outstation branches like Chandigarh, Agra, etc., we have a Sub-code. Do we need a separate sub-code for our other branches in different parts of Delhi?

Currently, we are depositing the contributions of all the Delhi employees under one ESI Code. The ESI Code was allotted in the year 2000 for a registered office based in Connaught Place, and since then, we have been following this practice. However, recently, an SSO visited our corporate office based in another part of Delhi and asked us to obtain a separate SUB-CODE for this office.

Statutory Requirement for Separate SUB CODE

My query is whether it is a statutory requirement to have a separate SUB CODE for each office? Because in our other offices, only 4-5 employees are working, which are covered under ESI, and it will increase the paperwork as we have to generate separate challans for each office.

Please give your valuable suggestions.

Regarding your query on the above subject, you can obtain a sub-code for branches separately for employees who are working in a particular branch and remit the contributions on the sub-code issued by ESIC. At the time of registration, you can mention the details of your Head Office and Branch Office particulars along with a list of employees. This makes it easier for you to obtain the sub-code from ESIC for your branches.

Benefits to Employees Under the ESI Act - 1948

According to the benefits to employees under the ESI Act - 1948, employees can receive benefits from the respective Branch Office and Dispensaries of ESIC to which they are attached. In this connection, you can obtain a sub-code for your branch employees.

Regards,
P.V. Rama Rao

Thank you for your comments. However, my query is whether it is a statutory requirement to have a sub-code for each office in Delhi. This would result in increased paperwork as we would need to file separate challans. Alternatively, can we continue with one code for Delhi?

Thank you.

Dear Kapil, There is no statutory requirement for having a different subcode for each office in Delhi. You can ensure compliance from one place. However, it is at your discretion if you want to have different subcodes for different branches. It may also be convenient for your employees to communicate with the sub-regional office/branch office in their zone for smart cards and other benefits.

At present, there is one regional office in Delhi and three sub-regional offices in Delhi, namely Rohini, Okhla, and Nand Nagri. Additionally, ESIC activities have become online, so there is no doubt about any medical entitlement in any part of the city/country. You can continue with the same code number.

Regards,
Deepak Behl
Labour Laws Consultant
Phone: [Phone Number Removed For Privacy Reasons]