Delhi government mandates registration for domestic help placement agencies
Agencies that fail to comply with the new registration rules face a fine of ₹50,000 and potential prosecution, according to the labour department.
The Delhi government has ordered all private placement agencies providing domestic help to register with the state, according to a report by Hindustan Times on Saturday.
A public notice from the labour department states that these agencies must obtain a licence via the e-District portal within 15 days. The registration process requires police verification for both the employer and the domestic worker.
Failure to follow the executive order dated September 25, 2014, will result in a ₹50,000 penalty, the cancellation of licences, and prosecution. The labour department notified the Delhi Private Placement Agencies Order in compliance with High Court orders.
The notice advises employers to hire only from registered agencies and to confirm that workers have undergone police verification. Under the order, domestic workers are defined as individuals aged 18 or older, and payments must be made through bank accounts.
The Delhi Commission for Women and the Child Welfare Committee have been granted adjudication powers to handle matters involving the employment of women and children. The order aims to prevent the exploitation of domestic workers in the capital.