Is a Workers' Committee Essential for a Hotel with 500 Employees? How to Get Started

Hi, please clarify my doubt regarding a workers' committee. Is it necessary in a hotel with 500 employees? If yes, please inform me of the steps to start.

Thanks,
Sumith.R

What do you mean by Workers Committee?

In India, the Industrial Disputes Act provides for forming a Works Committee in every establishment employing 100 or more workers. It is constituted by the employer as per the direction from the government. It shall consist of such a number of members selected equally from the management side and the workers' side. If there is any registered trade union, the selection of workers should be in consultation with the Union.

Please remember that a Works Committee is not formed automatically once your employment strength exceeds 100, but it is formed as directed by the government by an ordinary or special order. At the same time, you can also form a Committee of workers and management to take care of the smooth working of the organization. However, that committee will not be a statutory committee as per Section 3 of the ID Act.

Thanks for your reply. So, it's not mandatory.

It is not necessary that a Works Committee is formed unless the government has ordered its formation. However, when you undergo classification of hotels, they may inquire if you have any such committees to address employee grievances. This can enhance the value provided.

Yes, both will serve the same purpose, and it is mandatory that you should have a Grievance Redressal Committee.