HI Anup,
Based on the information you provided, it seems that the Employees' State Insurance (ESI) Act is applicable to your company. Here's why:
Contractual Employees:
Your company employs contractual workers, the ESI Act may be applicable, regardless of whether they are working in an implemented or non-implemented area. The Act covers both permanent and contractual employees.
Work in Non-Implemented Area: The ESI Act is applicable pan-India. It doesn't matter if the work is being done in a non-implemented area; if your employees fall under the scope of the Act, you may be liable for ESI deductions and contributions.
ESI Deductions and Contributions:
As per the ESI Act, both the employer and the employee are required to make contributions towards the ESI scheme. The employer's contribution is higher than the employee's.
ESI Department Communication:
If the ESI department has conveyed to you that you are liable for ESI deductions, contributions, and payments, it's important to take this seriously. Ignoring their communication could lead to legal consequences.
Workmen's Compensation (WC) Policy:
While you have a Workmen's Compensation Policy, this provides coverage for accidental injuries and occupational diseases to your employees. It is separate from ESI, which is a social security and health insurance scheme.
Thanks