Seeks views on Introducing Compounding of Offences

Mr D. Chandrasekhara Varma, Director of Factories, GoAP was recently in Sri City wherein he sought views and suggestions from industrial units on introduction of Compounding of Offences under Section 106B of AP Factories Act.

At an interactive meeting with the senior HR managers of the industrial units of Sri City Mr. Varma highlighted that the introduction of compounding of offences, when committed for the first time, under Section 106B of the Andhra Pradesh Factories Act and Rules in 2016, as opposed to prosecution, signifies a major change in how workplace safety regulations are enforced.

Compounding allows offences to be settled by paying a fine instead of undergoing prosecution, which can benefit all stakeholders. 

This provision gives employers a chance to rectify non-compliance initially without facing lengthy legal process; specified offences can be compounded by an authorised officer. 

However it was mentioned that the option to compound is available only for certain offences under specified conditions in Code.

This change, he said mirrors similar provisions adopted by other Indian states. He invited discussion on the implications of this amendment, focusing on its benefits, drawbacks, and potential impact on worker safety. 

He said the amendments aim to simplify and streamline the process for handling certain offences. Mr. Varma mentioned that this method aims to lower the number of legal disputes and promote adherence by imposing financial penalties.

Compounding system provides a means to address certain infractions outside of the court, it is not suitable for all violations, particularly severe ones, and it does not undermine the enforcement of regulations.