(1) In accordance with the provisions of this Code, the statutory standards and employer duties governing Protection of persons acting under this Code shall be enforced across all industrial premises, factories, mines, and workplaces throughout India.
(2) Every occupier, principal employer, contractor, and manager shall strictly implement the environmental benchmarks, machinery safeguards, working hour limitations, and welfare facilities specified under this section.
(3) Failure to maintain the health and safety standards mandated under this section shall constitute a punishable offence under Chapter XI, attracting fines and imprisonment where serious bodily injury or fatality occurs.
Legal Commentary & Landmark Judgments: Section 97
Section 97 of the Code confers statutory immunity and protection on persons acting under this Code, providing that no suit, prosecution, or other legal proceeding shall lie against any government official or Inspector-cum-Facilitator for anything done in good faith.
While Section 97 protects inspectors acting in good faith, malicious or extortionate conduct is not protected. Where an inspector acts ultra vires or with proven malice, appropriate remedy lies via Article 226 writ proceedings or anti-corruption complaints.