Call for setting minimum monthly wage at Rs32,000

Stakeholders unite to push for improved conditions for workers, combat human trafficking

KARACHI:

Sindh Human Rights Commission (SHRC) Chairperson Iqbal Detho has underlined the significance of improving conditions for workers in the informal sector and called for the implementation of a minimum monthly wage of Rs32,000 in the province. He also called for a comprehensive review of laws related to slavery and human trafficking in collaboration with the standing committees of the provincial assembly.

Detho was speaking at an interactive session with Sindh government stakeholders and experts from the United States on best practices to combat trafficking in persons and bonded labour in the province. The event, organised by the Sustainable Social Development Organisation (SSDO) in collaboration with the SHRC and the US Embassy, took place on Friday.

Highlighting that the Constitution prohibits slavery and human trafficking under Articles 3 and 11, Detho underscored the principles of policy regarding this issue. He also referred to the provisions of the Pakistan Penal Code related to human trafficking, bonded labour, sexual exploitation, and child labour.

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The SHRC aims to collaborate with the standing committees of the Sindh Assembly to review and enhance laws related to labour and agricultural workers. With the authority to review legislation, the SHRC seeks to advocate for a wage increase from Rs25,000 to Rs32,000 through the Sindh Labour Department. Detho commended the department's dedication to this cause.

While speaking at the session, Joseph Salavarria, a former law enforcement officer in the United States and an expert on combatting trafficking in persons (TIP), offered insights on what positive accomplishments can be achieved.

Newly elected MPAs, including Marvi Rashidi of the PPP, Ali Khursheedi of the MQM-P, and Advocate Sofia Shah of the MQM-P, highlighted various issues that need attention. They stressed the importance of raising awareness about available acts and institutions dedicated to addressing these concerns, urging all political parties to prioritise this matter collectively.

Published in The Express Tribune, March 3^rd, 2024.