Shimla Imposes Strict Regulations on Migrant Workers Amid Rising Protests

Shimla's authorities have mandated the registration and verification of migrant workers in the unorganised sector following protests over alleged migrant influx. Employers and unregistered workers face penalties under the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) 2023. Recent demonstrations have heightened tensions, leading to prohibitory orders and policy reviews on street vendors.

Shimla authorities have made the registration and verification of migrant workers in the unorganised sector mandatory, responding to escalating protests across Himachal Pradesh over the alleged influx of migrants.

Deputy Commissioner Anupam Kashyap announced that employers engaging migrant workers without police verification and registration would face penalties under Section 223 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) 2023. Migrant workers must submit their antecedents and a passport-size photo to the local police before undertaking any non-formal jobs.

The order, effective for two months, follows demands from Hindu groups and trader outfits for migrant identification. Recent protests originate from a mosque construction issue in Shimla, spreading statewide and causing injuries and unrest. Authorities have imposed a ban on public gatherings in key areas of Shimla.

(With inputs from agencies.)