CM Maryam orders strict enforcement of Rs37,000 minimum wage

In an attempt to regulate the labour market, Punjab Chief Minister (CM) Maryam Nawaz has authorised officials to oversee the distribution of fair wages to workers.

According to reports, CM Maryam has instructed relevant authorities to ensure that the monthly minimum wage of Rs37,000 was not violated by businesses.

Owing to the weak enforcement of labour laws, it is not uncommon for businesses to pay their workers wages that are below the provincial minimum wage. However, while chairing a meeting pertaining to labour welfare, the provincial chief executive has outlined the difficulties minimum wage workers face.

In addition to a lack of nutrition faced by such workers, she cited that these difficulties grow to envelop unreasonable burdens that businesses place on their employees. For instance, individuals working for minimum wage are often placed in high workload environments -- where time off from their tasks can result in financial strain on the business.

The CM has reaffirmed her support in the endeavour to alleviate hunger and combat the difficulties faced by workers. Moreover, she has assured that her government aims to improve the quality of life for the broader labour force via measures at the provincial level.

These measures include projects that will attempt to boost educational opportunities available to the children of minimum wage workers. Reports claim that children with exceptional academic performance are expected to be given additional support that could open up new opportunities for them in the coming months.

During the meeting, reports said, CM Maryam issued directives to alter labour laws in an attempt to protect workers from exploitation while boosting their welfare. Reports quoted her as saying that employment, healthcare, fair wages and shelter are all responsibilities the government should fulfil.

Guaranteeing employment might, however, prove to be tough as provincial governments must follow International Monetary Fund (IMF) mandated austerity measures. Under the stipulated measures, provinces are expected to generate significant budget surpluses -- leaving little room for the government to generate employment via expenditures.

Despite the potential hurdles, reports said, the meeting proved to be beneficial for workers as the government also authorised multiple labour welfare initiatives such as new residential colonies and upgrades to "social security hospitals".

In a bid to introduce efficiency to the healthcare system while simultaneously supporting workers, the provincial government has also authorised the construction of several wellness centres in Lahore and Rawalpindi. These facilities will screen workers and refer them to hospitals to receive specialised healthcare, reports said.