In Lok Sabha, the Industrial Relations Code, 2019 was introduced. The code consolidates three Acts related to trade unions, conditions for employment in industries and industrial disputes into one. These Acts are: (i). The Trade Union Act, 1926 (ii). The Industrial Disputes Act, 1947 and (iii). Industrial Employment (Standing Orders) Act, 1946.
The House then took up the National Capital Territory of Delhi (Recognition of Property Rights of Residents in Unauthorised Colonies) Bill, 2019. The Housing and Urban Affairs Minister proposed to complete the digital mapping of 1,731 colonies by the end of the year. The bill was passed.
In Rajya Sabha, a short discussion was held on the reported use of spyware which compromised the data of some people through WhatsApp. Several members highlighted the need for a data protection law to protect the privacy of citizens. In his response, the Minister noted that the Data Protection Bill is in progress.
Later, the Chit Fund (Amendment) Bill, 2019 was discussed and passed in Rajya Sabha.
The House went on to discuss the Prohibition of E-cigarettes Bill, 2019 (video). In his opening remarks, the Health Minister said regulation has not been enough elsewhere in the world, and a ban was necessary. The bill is still pending.
The External Affairs minister then made a statement on the government's efforts to promote foreign policy, focusing on high level visits that have taken place recently.