LAHORE: The restoration of economy is linked with the prosperity of labourers, but inflation has now eliminated the difference between working and non-working classes, said Pakistan Awami Tehreek (PAT) chief Dr Tahirul Qadri.

On the occasion of Labour Day, Dr Qadri said that fluctuating prices of dollar adversely affect the working class. The Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) government must help the poor by reducing inflation and utility expenses. The government is responsible for the implementation of labour laws and wage board, he added.

He went on to say that there is a huge difference between the living standards of an employer and an employee. Unfortunately, the prevalent system only accorded privilege to the elite and the labourers were deprived of their basic rights and even their issues remained unheard. Over half of the population is unable to manage daily meals.

A special ceremony regarding Labour Day was held at the PAT Central Secretariat. Senior leader Khurram Nawaz Gandapur, Basharat Jaspal, Noorullah Siddique, Fayyaz Warraich and others addressed the ceremony.

Mr Gandapur urged the federal and provincial governments to ensure strict implementation of labour laws, which are nearly non-existent for the past four decades. The working class of Pakistan must be free of fears of being sacked at the management’s will; and problems of labourers must be made part of the national conversation.

He expressed concern over the rising prices of food and other basic utilities and urged the PTI government to honour the promises it made with nation.

Published in Dawn, May 2nd, 2019