Srinagar, Nov 25: Daily rated workers in Kashmir Valley have urged the government to consider their inclusion under the Minimum Wages Act in the upcoming budget for the fiscal year 2025-26.
President, Jammu Kashmir Daily Wagers Forum Sajad Parry while addressing a press conference in Srinagar demanded regularization and voiced concerns over their long-standing struggle for fair compensation and basic labor rights.
He said for years, the workers, many of whom are employed in government departments, agriculture, tourism, PHE, and other sectors, have been demanding recognition as permanent employees with access to minimum wage laws. “Despite their essential contributions, these workers are often subjected to low pay, job insecurity, and a lack of social security benefits,” Sajad Parrey said.
“The current situation of casual laborers in Kashmir is dire. We work long hours but are denied the benefits and protections that permanent employees receive. We are simply asking for what is fair—a decent minimum wage, job security, and the dignity of work,” he said adding that It’s time for the government to address these issues in the upcoming budget and bring them under the coverage of the Minimum Wages Act.
He accused authorities of ignoring their plight and demanded regularization of their services on a fast track basis.
President Consolidated Workers of Health Department Gulzar Ahmed Chopan who was also said they have been working on minimum monthly Rs 3000. He also demanded the implementation of minimum wages act. (CNS)
