How to File a Complaint with the Labour Commissioner in India

The Labour Commissioner (also called the Chief Labour Commissioner at the central level) is the primary authority for resolving disputes between employers and employees in India. Workers who face issues such as non-payment of wages, illegal termination, denial of statutory benefits, unsafe working conditions, or violations of labour laws can file complaints directly with the Labour Commissioner's office in their jurisdiction.

When You Can Approach the Labour Commissioner

The Labour Commissioner's office handles complaints related to: non-payment or delayed payment of wages under the Payment of Wages Act, 1936 (or the Code on Wages, 2019, where notified), non-payment of bonus under the Payment of Bonus Act, 1965, denial of gratuity under the Payment of Gratuity Act, 1972, illegal retrenchment or termination without following the procedure under the Industrial Disputes Act, 1947 (or the Industrial Relations Code, 2020, where applicable), violations of working hours, overtime, and leave provisions, non-compliance with minimum wage notifications, and disputes regarding EPF, ESI, or other statutory deductions.

The Labour Commissioner also acts as a conciliation officer under the Industrial Disputes Act, attempting to mediate and resolve disputes between employers and workers before they escalate to formal adjudication. For context on the current labour law framework, see the Labour Codes 2026 implementation guide and the full and final settlement rights guide.

Identifying the Correct Authority

India has a dual labour administration system: the Central Labour Commissioner (CLC) handles complaints against central government establishments, railways, mines, ports, and industries covered under the Central sphere, while the State Labour Commissioner handles complaints against private sector employers and state government establishments operating within the state.

To determine the correct authority, check whether your employer falls under central or state jurisdiction. Most private sector employees should file with the State Labour Commissioner's office in the district where the employer's establishment is located. For central government employees and establishments in centrally regulated sectors, file with the Regional Labour Commissioner (Central) of the region.

Step-by-Step Complaint Filing Process

Step 1: Draft a written complaint addressed to the Labour Commissioner or Assistant Labour Commissioner of the relevant jurisdiction. The complaint should include: the complainant's full name, address, and contact details; the employer's name, registered address, and nature of business; the complainant's employment details (date of joining, designation, department, salary); a clear description of the grievance with specific dates, amounts, and facts; copies of supporting documents (appointment letter, salary slips, attendance records, termination letter, bank statements showing non-payment); and the specific relief sought (payment of dues, reinstatement, compensation).

Step 2: Submit the complaint either in person at the Labour Commissioner's office or through the online portal (many states now offer e-filing through the Shram Suvidha portal at shramsuvidha.gov.in for central matters, or through state-specific labour department portals). Step 3: Obtain an acknowledgement receipt with a complaint reference number. Step 4: The Labour Commissioner's office will issue a notice to the employer, typically within 7 to 14 days, directing them to appear for a conciliation hearing.

The Conciliation Process

On the date of hearing, both the complainant and the employer (or their authorised representatives) appear before the conciliation officer. The officer hears both sides, examines the documentary evidence, and attempts to facilitate a settlement. If both parties agree to a settlement, a memorandum of settlement is drawn up and signed by both parties. This settlement is binding on both parties.

If conciliation fails, the Labour Commissioner issues a failure report. The dispute can then be referred to the Labour Court or Industrial Tribunal for adjudication. The complainant can also directly approach the Labour Court if the matter involves individual termination or dismissal. The entire conciliation process typically takes 30 to 90 days, though complex cases may take longer.

Online Filing Through Shram Suvidha Portal

The Central Government's Shram Suvidha portal (shramsuvidha.gov.in) allows workers to file complaints against central sphere establishments electronically. Register on the portal using your mobile number and Aadhaar, select the category of complaint, fill in the employer and employment details, upload supporting documents, and submit. The portal assigns the complaint to the appropriate Regional Labour Commissioner. For related workplace rights, see the POSH Act employer obligations guide, the Payment of Gratuity Act guide, and the gig workers welfare board 2026 framework.

Workers who cannot afford legal representation can seek free legal aid from the District Legal Services Authority (DLSA) under the Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987. Trade unions can also file collective complaints on behalf of multiple workers. For broader context on worker protections, see the Occupational Safety Health Code 2020 guide.