IT is undeniably true that a country cannot prosper without skilled and hardworking labour. Their job should be considered just as dignified as any other occupation. But, unfortunately, there is apathy towards the labourers in our society. While we show respect for the executives, who, too, are working members of society, there is almost blanket indifference towards labourers at the lowest rung of the working class.

The workers across the country, especially in Hyderabad, Kotri and Nooriabad, have to work 12 hours a day against extremely low salaries. The salaries, in fact, are way below the legal definition of minimum wage, which is against the law.

Besides, the workers have to pay for their meals and commute, for the employers do not provide such facilities despite exploiting these poor souls. How are these workers supposed to save money for the rainy day when they find it difficult to make ends meet? How can they survive in an environment where even the basic necessities cost more than their salary?

My father is employed at a factory in Nooriabad, which is between Hyderabad and Karachi. He visits home only on weekends. But the workers from Punjab face even worse conditions. They do not go to their homes on weekends because they cannot afford doing so. They visit their families only on events like Eids, or when there is some urgent need.

The Factories Act of 1934 states that ‘no adult worker shall be allowed or is required to work in a factory for more than 42 hours in a week’.

It is clear that a worker is required to work eight hours a day. On the other hand, it is compulsory that unskilled workers receive a minimum salary worth Rs32,000 per month.

Besides, there is no ambulance in the factory. In case of injuries owing to an accident at the factory, the worker is sent to Hyderabad, which is two hours away by road. Their lives are at stake. The workers have to suffer even if they have a headache, as there is no medicine available in the factory.

In addition to such deplorable factory conditions, teh workers are not registered with the Employees Old-Age Benefits Institution (EOBI), the Workers Welfare Fund (WWF) and the Sindh Employees’ Social Security Institution (SESSI).

The policymakers and other relevant stakeholders should find permanent and long-term solutions for securing the workers’ future, and ensuring that they get what happens to be their right.

Imama Khalid
Hyderabad

Published in Dawn, November 27th, 2023