Additional Labour Commissioner

Dr. MANJUNATH

Additional Labour Commissioner, Government of Karnataka, with a Ph.D. from NLSIU, focusing on PoSH law, industrial relations, labour jurisprudence, social security, and workplace governance.

Years In Karnataka Labour Service

0 +

Years As Additional Labour Commissioner

0 +

Countries Represented

Number of HR/IR and Other Professionals – Trained

0 +

Strengthening Workplace Rights

About

I am presently, Additional Labour Commissioner (Industrial Relations), Government of Karnataka. I hold a Ph.D. from National Law School of India University (NLSIU), Master’s degree in Women’s Studies, M.A. in Economics, and B.A, Double Gold Medallist and First Rank holder from Bangalore University.

I have been awarded several national and international fellowships, including RDW Fellowship from ILO, Geneva. Areas of specialization includes, the law relating to Sexual Harassment of Women at the Workplace (PoSH), industrial relations and labour law jurisprudence, gig economy, social security, and corporate social responsibility.

Appellate Authority under the Prevention of Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace Act, 2013 for the State of Karnataka.

CEO, The Karnataka Platform based gig workers (social security and welfare) Board.

Primary Focus Areas

Core Services & Expertise

My work spans legal compliance, industrial dispute resolution, gender justice, and digital labour administration. I support both public and private institutions in implementing efficient governance mechanisms that ensure worker protection while maintaining organizational productivity.

Under the new labour codes, and Karnataka rules, my main function and statutory duty include Inspector cum facilitator, facilitating all stake holders for better compliance and labour rights protection in the new labour regulation regime.

My core expertise includes framing new legislation in the emerging economies including formal and informal sector. I had an opportunity to prepare the draft and approval of several bills, which has now become the landmark legislation in the state of Karnataka, important among them is the Karnataka Platform based gig workers (social security and welfare) Act, 2025.

I have been recognised as one the leading trainers in the country on subjects like Industrial relations and labour compliance, POSH Compliance, Labour reforms and administration. I also bring global experience since, I am internationally trained professional on social security, industrial relations and labour administration from ITC-ILO, Turin and ILO, Geneva and International Social Security Association.

Karnataka Motor Transport and Other Allied Workers’ Social Security and Welfare Act & Rules 2024.
Karnataka Platform-based Gig Workers (Social Security and Welfare) Act & Rules 2025.
Karnataka Domestic Workers’ Welfare and Social Security Bill, 2025.
Karnataka Rights of Persons with Disabilities in Employment and Education Bill, 2025.

Leadership & Governance Focus

Key Contributions
to Industrial Relations

Industrial Dispute Resolution & Harmony

Facilitated amicable resolution of industrial disputes through conciliation, structured social dialogue, and consensus-building, promoting sustained industrial harmony across Karnataka.

Inclusive Labour Reforms & Social Protection

Played a key role in advancing Karnataka-specific labour reforms extending social security and welfare to gig and platform workers, domestic workers, and persons with disabilities.

Central Labour Codes & Stakeholder Engagement

Contributed to Karnataka’s preparedness for implementation of the four Central Labour Codes through drafting of rules, stakeholder consultations, and engagement with trade unions and employers’ associations.

Impact & Recognition

Quick Stats & Recognition Section

I have trained over 102,260 professionals from government, industry, and worker organizations, spreading awareness on PoSH compliance, labour law implementation, and social security. My contributions have been recognized at both national and international levels, reflecting my commitment to evidence-driven governance.

I have also engaged with global institutions and international conferences, adopting best practices in labour governance and sharing India’s innovations with the global community. My work reflects impactful, ethical, and inclusive leadership in modern labour administration.

Recognition & Stats:

25+ years of public service
102,260+ professionals trained
International collaborations: Thailand, Italy, Malaysia, Switzerland, USA
Multiple national and international fellowships and awards
Pioneer in gig worker welfare and PoSH law enforcement