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Under the Minimum Wages Act, 1948 in India, various authorities and remedies are provided to ensure compliance with the provisions of the Act and to address grievances related to the payment of minimum wages. Here are the key authorities and remedies available under the Act:

  1. Inspectors: The appropriate government appoints inspectors under the Minimum Wages Act to inspect workplaces, examine records, and ensure compliance with the provisions of the Act. Inspectors have the authority to enter any premises where work is carried out for the purpose of inspection.
  2. Advisory Board: The Act provides for the constitution of Minimum Wage Advisory Boards at the central and state levels. These boards advise the government on matters related to the fixation and revision of minimum wages and other issues concerning the implementation of the Act.
  3. Payment of Wages Authority: In some states, designated authorities are appointed to adjudicate disputes regarding the payment of wages, including disputes related to the non-payment or underpayment of minimum wages. These authorities have the power to hear complaints, conduct inquiries, and pass orders to ensure the payment of minimum wages to workers.
  4. Offenses and Penalties: The Act prescribes penalties for employers who contravene its provisions, including the non-payment or underpayment of minimum wages. Penalties may include fines and imprisonment, depending on the nature and severity of the offense.
  5. Claims and Appeals: Workers have the right to file claims or complaints before the appropriate authorities in case of non-payment or underpayment of minimum wages. These claims are adjudicated by the designated authorities, and aggrieved parties have the right to appeal against the decisions of these authorities before higher appellate forums.
  6. Prosecution and Legal Proceedings: Employers found guilty of offenses under the Minimum Wages Act may be prosecuted in the court of law. Legal proceedings may be initiated against them, and if convicted, they may be liable for fines, imprisonment, or other penalties as prescribed under the Act.
  7. Remedies for Workers: Workers who have not been paid minimum wages or have been subjected to unauthorized deductions from their wages can seek remedies such as recovery of unpaid wages, compensation for any losses suffered, and other legal remedies available under the Act.
  8. Public Awareness and Grievance Redressal: The Act emphasizes the importance of creating awareness among workers about their rights under the Act and establishing mechanisms for grievance redressal to address complaints related to the non-payment or underpayment of minimum wages.

Overall, the authorities and remedies provided under the Minimum Wages Act, 1948 aim to ensure the effective enforcement of minimum wage provisions, deter non-compliance by employers, and protect the interests of workers in relation to their wages.