Call to set up special task force to combat bonded labour, organ trafficking

LAHORE:In a fervent call to action, Syeda Ghulam Fatima, Secretary General of the Bonded Labour Liberation Front (BLLF) Pakistan, demanded the formation of a specialised task force by the government to eradicate forced labour and put an end to the gruesome trade of organ transplantation involving kiln workers.

Fatima made these impassioned appeals during a seminar held here on Tuesday organised by the BLLF in connection with Labour Day. Addressing the seminar, Fatima stressed the imperative for the government to eliminate forced labour in all its forms, underscoring the need for kiln workers to be included in the social safety net. Her sentiments were echoed by Sardar Ramesh Singh Arora, Provincial Human Rights Minister, who affirmed the government's commitment to addressing labour rights issues, including forced labour and human trafficking.

The seminar, attended by prominent figures including BLLF leaders, members of the National Assembly, and representatives from various governmental bodies, provided a platform to discuss pressing issues such as forced labour, child labour, and human trafficking.

In his address, Sardar Ramesh Singh Arora commended the BLLF's efforts and pledged government support to combat child labour and human trafficking. He announced plans to establish a special task force to enforce labour laws and issue social security and welfare plans for kiln workers.

Maher Safdar Ali and Bibi Waderi reiterated the urgent need for concerted efforts to end exploitation and increase wages for kiln workers. Syeda Kalsoom Hayee DG Labour Punjab, Jahan Ara Wattoo Vice chairperson, Social protection Authority Punjab, Irfan Mufti Director SAP PAK, Farrukh Marghub Senior leader PPP Punjab, addressed on the occasion.

Following the seminar, a rally was organised where workers raised their voices for their rights and presented a list of demands, including increased budget allocations for children's health and education, immediate economic support for unemployed workers, and enforcement of labor laws.