Perishable commodity

The plight of labourers was highlighted on Labour Day observed on May 1. Labour is a perishable commodity. Because of this characteristic, labourers are in a weak bargaining position. Back in the 1800s, labour unions fought for their rights. A similar revolution is needed to address the problems of labourers. The ever-increasing population of the country produces a largely unskilled mass of labour against the limited absorbing capacity of the economy. This results in the exploitation of labour, including low wages, long working hours and no social security, etc. If the number of labourers would be less or equal to the job capacity in the market, they would be in a strong bargaining position to reclaim their rights.

In Sindh, the tea shops or hotels dotting towns, villages and roadsides are filled with working age men. Two decades ago, the majority of the male population after completing the agriculture work, would come to the stall to have a cup of tea. But with the shortage of irrigation water, the arrival of machinery and the absence of alternative sources of livelihood, the agro-based labour force has been left with little work. Now these men have engaged their children in child labour while their female family members besides performing backbreaking household chores also earn meagre income from rope making, handicraft and sewing, etc. Labourers contribute significantly to the country’s economy. It is the government’s responsibility to respond to their concerns. Celebrations held once a year will not help alleviate the sufferings of the community.

Gulsher Panhwer

Johi