Dhaka: Domestic aid and cleaning workers today demanded their inclusion in labour laws as well as official recognition as labourers. They placed their demand at a view-exchange meeting with the Labour Reform Commission at Srama Bhaban in Bijoynagar of the city. Labour Reform Commission Chief Syed Sultan Uddin Ahmed revealed the commission's plans to prepare a report based on recommendations aimed at protecting the nearly 7.30 crore labour force in the country and ensuring their fundamental rights. According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the Labour Reform Commission has embarked on a mission to address 12 critical issues to establish a minimum national wage and enhance the social status for all workers across the country. The commission pledged to submit its recommendations to the government within the next 90 days, adhering to both national and international standards to uphold the rights of working people. In attendance at the meeting were several notable figures including commission members, former secr etary of the Ministry of Labour and Employment Dr Mahfuzul Haque, Professor of the Institute of Bangladesh Studies at Rajshahi University Dr Zakir Hossain, Ashiqul Alam, Shakil Akhtar Chowdhury, Taslima Akhtar, and former president of the Employers Federation M Kamran T Rahman. The discourse addressed the dire conditions faced by approximately 40 lakh workers from the Dalit and Harijan communities, who are predominantly employed in cleaning roles. The commission expressed its commitment to establishing decent work conditions and social justice for these marginalized groups. The commission chief emphasized the need for fair participation in the labour market, including the right to form trade unions freely and the practice of responsible trade unions and business organizations. Ahmed highlighted that international policies will be reviewed to ensure fair partnerships and the development of the industrial sector when formulating their recommendations. To garner comprehensive insights, the Labour Reform Commis sion plans to seek suggestions and cooperation from various stakeholders to enhance labour and industrial relations in the country.
