K-P pushes labour reforms, union revival

CM orders faster worker registration, backs student unions law

PESHAWAR:

An important meeting of the Labour Department was held under the chairmanship of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister, Muhammad Sohail Afridi, to comprehensively review the legal and institutional framework governing labour welfare, ongoing reform initiatives, and the future roadmap for the sector.

The meeting underscored the urgent need to further strengthen the social security registration system for workers to ensure effective enforcement of the government-notified minimum wage. Chairing the session, the Chief Minister emphasized that full compliance with minimum wage laws is non-negotiable and directed the relevant authorities to accelerate the labour registration process across the province.

Officials briefed the meeting that, under the government's broader good governance agenda, the initial registration targets have already been achieved ahead of schedule. They added that the number of registered workers is expected to rise significantly by May 1, marking a major milestone in expanding social protection coverage for labourers.

The participants also agreed on the necessity of increasing the number of labour courts to ensure speedy resolution of disputes and better access to justice for workers. The Chief Minister directed that the matter be formally taken up at the appropriate forum for early decision-making.

The meeting reviewed progress on worker welfare housing initiatives as well, particularly the issuance of allotment letters for newly constructed residential flats for labourers in Peshawar.

The Chief Minister instructed officials to ensure that the process is completed without delay so that eligible workers can benefit from improved living conditions.

In addition to labour-related matters, the meeting held a detailed discussion on the long-standing issue of restoring student unions in educational institutions. It was noted that the Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Assembly has already passed a resolution in this regard, and practical steps are currently underway to implement it.

A dedicated committee has been formed to prepare recommendations on the revival of student unions. Based on these recommendations, a balanced code of conduct will be developed in consultation with all stakeholders to ensure responsible and constructive student participation. The meeting also decided that formal legislation would be introduced to clearly define the structure, scope, and regulatory framework of student unions.

The Chief Minister highlighted the importance of student unions in fostering democratic values and leadership skills among youth. He said their revival would provide students with a platform to engage positively in democratic processes, ultimately contributing to the development of future leadership in the province.