CITU protests in Guwahati for Rs 800 daily minimum wage
Trade union members demanded the state government fix minimum wages and stop the implementation of new Labour Codes.
The Centre of Indian Trade Unions (CITU) held a protest outside Shram Bhawan at Ulubari in Guwahati on Monday. According to The Assam Tribune, workers from 98 scheduled employments joined the demonstration to demand a minimum daily wage of Rs 800 and an end to the new Labour Codes in Assam.
Protesters included ASHA workers, Anganwadi workers, helpers, and mid-day meal cooks. These groups are seeking recognition as workers entitled to wages rather than honorariums, alongside regularisation and social security.
CITU Assam State Secretary Tapan Sarma criticised the current pay structure, noting that tea garden labourers receive between Rs 280 and Rs 289 per day. He stated that midday meal workers receive Rs 1,500 a month, ASHA workers receive Rs 3,000, and Anganwadi helpers receive Rs 4,000.
The organisation raised six specific demands, including fixing wages for contract workers and addressing issues regarding welfare benefits for construction workers. They also called for social security for unorganised-sector workers, such as those in motor transport.
A protester alleged that the state government and the Labour Department have not issued an official minimum-wage notification for the 98 scheduled employments since 2015. A CITU general secretary claimed the government has prioritised wealthy interests over workers.
The CITU stated that the agitation will continue until the government provides written assurances regarding their demands.