Don't want to hear the term 'nokku kooli': Kerala High Court

The Kerala High Court on Thursday said that it is disappointing to see instances of 'nokku kooli' (gawking wages) even though the state government banned the practice in 2018. Justice Devan Ramachandran stated that the practice has earned the state a reputation of "militant trade unionism".

Nokku Kooli refers to loading, unloading and supervision charges demanded by workers even if they are not tasked with the job. The practise is still continued in several parts of Kerala with the support of trade unions.

Justice Devan Ramachandran was addressing a hotel owner's plea for police protection to carry out his business without the disturbance of those who are demanding gawking wages. The court observed the practice was deterring investors from coming to the state, reported The News Minute.

The High Court stated that practices like gawking charges must be eradicated to make Kerala investor-friendly. Justice Ramachandran directed the government to take action against those who demand nokku kooli regardless of which party supports them. He added that the court no longer wants to hear the term at all.

The Court added that any load worker who is denied a job can approach the labour board for relief and violence is not the answer.