Is the Minimum Wages Act Applicable When Outsourcing Security Guards for Our Housing Society?

I am one of the committee members of the housing society. We need to outsource security guards for our housing society, which comprises 20 residential flats. We are looking to hire three security guards. I am inquiring whether the Minimum Wages Act is applicable to us as the principal outsourced society. Can anybody provide guidance on this matter?

Ganesh Vanmali
Email: ganeshv7564@gmail.com

Dear Ganesh,

My personal view is that employment matters relating to any housing society or owners' association of exclusive residential apartments would not be subject to labor laws. However, if you are hiring the security guards through any private security agency, please ensure that they are paid the minimum rates of wages, if any, fixed by your State Government.

I fully endorse the views expressed by Shri Umakanthan Sir. The Minimum Wages Act is applicable to any body corporate or otherwise, including shops, farms, etc. The Act is easy to maintain by Resident Welfare Associations (RWA) or colony residents. It's good to ensure wage payments strictly as per the state-notified rates so that office bearers do not face any problems. The second important thing is to employ guards from a Security Agency so that necessary documents/compliance, which they do for others, can be done with respect to these guards as well. It's a perfect opinion given by Mr. Umakanthan.

Regards,
RDS Yadav