Women farmers rally for fair treatment

Demand registration, benefits in agricultural labour

RAHIM YAR KHAN:

Women working in the agricultural fields of Rahim Yar Khan have raised their voices to demand their economic rights.

They are calling for equal treatment under labor laws, akin to industrial workers, and advocating for similar benefits and facilities.

Dozens of women, accompanied by their children, took to the streets in Kehwor Khan village, carrying banners and placards to express their grievances.

Despite covering their faces and heads, their determination to demand justice was evident as they staged a protest demonstration in the fields.

Speakers at the protest, including Rekha Dewi, Kausar Mai, and Aasma, highlighted the vital role they play in agriculture, from sowing to harvesting, yet lamented the inadequacy of their wages. They urged the government to formally recognise them as labourers under existing laws, providing them with social security cards, benefits, and facilities afforded to industrial workers.

Drawing attention to Sindh's progressive step in registering women under labour laws, the demonstrators called upon the Punjab government to follow suit and prioritise the welfare of women in agricultural sectors.

Abdul Rab Farooqi, representing the social organisation Jag Welfare Movement, and its workers pledged their support to the women protesters, affirming their commitment to facilitating the registration of women under labour laws.

He said the protest underscored the growing demand for gender equality and fair treatment of women in all spheres of society, particularly in traditionally male-dominated sectors like agriculture.

Published in The Express Tribune May 3^rd, 2024