As the world of work transforms, key legal regulations need to be strengthened to amplify workers’ rights, particularly in terms of living wages, social security, safe working conditions, and strengthened safety measures, to ensure a dignified and equitable employment landscape for vulnerable communities.
As of recent estimates, about 80% to 90% of the workforce in India is employed in the informal sector. This includes a wide range of jobs that are not regulated by the government, such as casual labour, self-employment, and small-scale enterprises that operate outside the formal economy. The informal sector plays a significant role in India’s labour market, contributing to a large portion of employment but often lacking job security, benefits, and social protections for workers. The COVID-19 pandemic starkly illustrated the precarious position of workers, who were often left to fend for themselves amid widespread disruptions. During the pandemic, many workers were forced to undertake arduous journeys back to their villages, an indication of the severe lack of support from employers. Although some employers facilitated free transportation for workers returning to their jobs, many failed to provide essential support, such as travel allowances or pending wages. This oversight shows the urgent need for legal mandates requiring employers to ensure the safety and well-being of their employees during crises, including their safe return home.
In recent years, the notion of minimum wages has progressively shifted towards the concept of living wages, which aims to provide workers with a standard of income that ensures a decent and dignified life. This evolution reflects a broader recognition of the fundamental need to respect and adequately compensate the workforce for their important role in economic, rural and urban development.
In addition to fair wages, workers must be guaranteed basic social security to ensure they and their families lead a dignified life. Essential social security benefits should include life insurance, education assistance for children, and comprehensive healthcare. For workers engaged in hazardous occupations, access to safety equipment is also important. However, the process of applying for these benefits can be daunting, often requiring workers to rely on intermediaries. To address this, there should be dedicated helpdesks at major workplaces and labour hubs to assist workers with applications for labour cards and other benefits. Moreover, in cases where workers or their families are seeking death benefits, it is essential to have support systems in place to navigate these processes effectively.
Decent working conditions are also a fundamental right. Many women workers, in particular, report experiencing harassment, while domestic workers often face wage reductions or replacement if they fall ill. To encourage a productive and respectful work environment, all workers, including women, must have access to clean drinking water, sanitary facilities, and regular time off. Providing such basic necessities not only ensures workers’ well-being but also ensures their productivity. Employers who show genuine care for their workers are likely to see improved performance and morale.
The importance of workplace safety and security cannot be overstated, as highlighted by recent incidents such as the rape case in a Kolkata hospital. Large establishments like hospitals, schools, universities, and factories must implement robust security measures and surveillance systems. For domestic and other workers, it is essential that both employers and employees are educated about the Prevention of Sexual Harassment (POSH) Act. Workers should know whom to approach with complaints, and institutions should have internal complaint committees. Additionally, workers must be aware that they can also contact the police if necessary. Support systems are vital to enable workers to reach out to these resources effectively.
Building strong worker agencies and support networks is crucial in asserting and protecting workers’ rights. For migrant and other vulnerable workers, accessible helpdesks are necessary to facilitate their access to entitlements, file complaints, and voice new demands in an evolving employment landscape.
The future of workers’ rights depends on a combination of fair wages, comprehensive social security, decent working conditions, and stringent safety measures. As we move forward, it is necessary to address these areas by strengthening legal frameworks and practical support systems for workers, particularly the most vulnerable.
The views expressed by the Associate Director, ActionAid Association
