Minimum wage notification sparks outcry

The Punjab government has fixed the minimum monthly wage for private-sector employees at Rs40,000 across the province, including Rawalpindi Division, and has tasked the Labour department with ensuring implementation.

According to a notification issued by the Labour and Human Resource Department, the minimum wage has been raised from Rs37,000 to Rs40,000 effective September.

However, the notification also allows employers to make specific deductions for food, accommodation, and transport provided to workers.

Employers can now deduct Rs100 per meal, Rs1,800 per month for transport, and Rs2,000 for accommodation.

This means that an employee availing all three facilities will effectively receive Rs33,000 instead of Rs40,000.

Labour officials have launched an awareness and enforcement campaign across Rawalpindi Division.

Banners have been displayed urging businesses to comply with the Rs40,000 minimum wage. Non-compliance could lead to fines, legal cases, and imprisonment.

Workers told The Express Tribune that while the wage increase initially offered hope, the added deductions have nullified the relief.

"Instead of getting Rs40,000, we will end up earning even less than before," said one employee.