Despite the attractive slew of reforms set to implemented, trade unions remain apprehensive. The Joint Platform of Central Trade Unions expressed strong condemnation against “the blatantly unilateral implementation of anti-worker, pro employer labour codes.”

The coalition termed the codes a "deceptive fraud committed against the working people of the nation."

The Joint Platform notice was signed by the All India Trade Union Congress (AITUC), Indian National Trade Union Congress, Centre of Indian Trade Unions, All India United Trade Union Centre, Hind Mazdoor Sabha, All India Central Council of Trade Unions, Self-employed Women’s Association, Trade Union Coordination Centre, Labour Progressive Federation and United Trade Union Congress.

The unions stated that the move has been opposed since the day they were enacted in 2019 through multiple protests and a general strike on July 9, 2025 when 25 crore workers participated.

“In spite of the stiff resistance, the Union government, dizzy with the victory in Bihar elections, has felt super empowered to make effective the four labour codes from today as per the media reports and tweets by the Ministry of Labour & Employment,” the statement added.

AITUC General Secretary Amarjeet Kaur told TNIE, “The women who will work at nights in factories and in mines will be those from the lower middle class. Who will provide them safety? Making them work night shifts is risky for them and we oppose it.”

Protests against the move, will begin in a minor fashion from Monday and will culminate on November 26. “We had already planned a protest on the day but it will be much more intense due to the step taken today,” she added.

Welcoming the step, the Geneva-based International Social Security Organisation (ISSO) said, “India’s Labour Codes add momentum to global efforts for stronger, more inclusive social security systems. ISSA welcomes this milestone and encourages sustained investment in coverage, protection and institutional capacity.”

The Bharatiya Mazdoor Sangh, the National Front of Indian Trade Unions and the Telangana Gig and Platform Workers Union have also backed the move.