CHARSADDA: Rallies and ceremonies were held across Charsadda district to mark May 1 as Labour Day and highlight demands of labour and working classes.

Different events were organised by Local Government Employees Federation and Government Employees Coordination Council at the TMA Hall.

Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC) Ms Rina attended both the events as chief guest. Addressing the gatherings, along with TMO Fazal Subhan, Shad Khan and other speakers, she paid tribute to workers of Chicago, stating that their historic sacrifices paved the way for labour rights across the world.

The speakers noted that, even today, the working class continued to face severe economic hardships, making it difficult for many to sustain their livelihoods. They emphasised that a permanent solution to issues related to salaries and pensions lied in the implementation of an “Account-4” system, and called for ensuring timely payment of wages and pensions to employees.

Later, a rally led by district president Shad Khan of the Local Government Employees Federation was taken out from TMA Charsadda to Farooq-e-Azam Chowk. Participants carried banners and placards inscribed with slogans in support of workers’ rights.

A separate ceremony of TMA employees was also held at the hall of the former TMA building under the chairmanship of president Marjan Ali. ADC Ms Rina, former superintendent Mujahid Gul and a large number of employees attended the event. Addressing the ceremony, Ms Rina and Marjan Ali paid rich tribute to the workers of Chicago and acknowledged their immense contributions to national development.

During the rallies, participants reiterated that workers were the backbone of any society and that sustainable development was not possible without their welfare. Ms Rina said Labour Day serves as a reminder of the struggle and sacrifices of the working class. She added that the government was taking practical steps to protect workers’ rights and improve their welfare and that further effective policies were under consideration.

On the occasion, the ADC also announced the provision of two de-watering pumps for TMA Charsadda.

Published in Dawn, May 1st, 2026