(a) the total outstanding dues in regard to ESI and EPF to be recovered from the defaulting companies as on January 31, 2003, till date;
(b) whether this amount has increased as compared to February 2001;
(c) if so, the total recovery of defaulting amount made by the Government from these companies during 2001 to 2003; and
(d) the steps taken or being taken by the Government to recover the amount expeditiously?
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF LABOUR (SHRI VIJAY GOEL)
(a): The total outstanding ESI and EPF dues to be recovered from defaulting companies are Rs.894.11 crore and Rs.2179.19 crore respectively.
(b): Yes, Sir.
(c): During the period (2001 to 2003) the amount recovered from defaulting companies, ESI and EPF dues are Rs.140.24 crore and Rs.1370.33 respectively.
(d): Non payment of ESI & EPF contributions under the ESI Act, 1948 and the EPF & MP Act, 1952 respectively is an offence. Under the EPF & MP Act, 1952, action under Section 7A, 8F, 8B to 8G, 14 (1)(D), 14(B) & 7Q,under Section 110 of criminal procedure code whereas action under Section 45 C to 45 E, Section 39(5) (a) and Section 35(b) of ESI Act, 1948 and under Section 406/409 of Indian Penal Code (IPC) are taken against defaulters to recover the outstanding dues.