Appointment of Verification Officer under the IR Code 2020

**Executive Summary** Published on June 11, 2026, this notification from the Ministry of Labour and Employment outlines the delegation of powers under the Industrial Relations Code, 2020. The Central Government has authorized Joint Secretary-level officers to appoint verification officers for the recognition of negotiating unions or councils. This administrative change is effective immediately for all establishments where the Central Government is the appropriate authority. **Key Points / Main Content** **Legal Authority and Framework** * The notification is issued in exercise of powers conferred by Section 100 of the Industrial Relations Code, 2020. * It specifically delegates powers vested in the Central Government under sub-rule (3) of rule 9 of the Industrial Relations (Central) Rules, 2026. **Delegation of Power** * Authority is delegated to officers holding the rank of Joint Secretary within the Ministry of Labour and Employment. * The delegation specifically applies to those Joint Secretaries responsible for looking after Industrial Relations. **Purpose of Appointment** * The delegated power is for the appointment of verification officers. * These officers are tasked with verifying the recognition of negotiating unions or negotiating councils under Section 14 of the Industrial Relations Code, 2020. **Scope of Application** * The notification applies to industrial establishments where the Central Government serves as the "appropriate Government." **Impact Analysis** **Ministry of Labour and Employment (Joint Secretary Level)** **Impact** These officers are now directly empowered to appoint verification officers, shifting this specific administrative responsibility from the Central Government to their office. **Action Required** Exercise the delegated authority to appoint verification officers as required for union or council recognition processes. **Industrial Establishments (Central Government Jurisdiction)** **Impact** The administrative process for verifying and recognizing negotiating unions or councils will now be overseen by verification officers appointed by the Joint Secretary. **Action Required** Cooperate with the appointed verification officers during the recognition and verification process of negotiating unions or councils. **Negotiating Unions and Negotiating Councils** **Impact** The formal recognition process is now tied to the verification officers appointed under this delegated authority. **Action Required** Engage with the appointed verification officer to fulfill requirements for formal recognition under Section 14 of the Code.

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