B'luru domestic workers demand reforms on Intl Domestic Workers Day

Bengaluru, NT Bureau: On the occasion of International Domestic Workers Day, the Domestic Workers Rights Union gathered at Karmikara Bhavan to press for their demands, submitting a memorandum to Labour Commissioner Gopalakrishna.

Over 300 women domestic workers from Bengaluru participated in the event, underscoring the urgent need for reforms to protect and empower this essential yet vulnerable workforce.

The Domestic Workers Rights Union highlighted grievances including unreported sexual violence, the need for revisions in the Prevention of Sexual Harassment (POSH) Act, and holding Resident Welfare Associations (RWAs) and employers accountable for sexual harassment cases.

They demanded the ratification of the C189 convention, the establishment of a Domestic Workers Taskforce, constitutional rights to safety, health, and social protection, and stringent action against trafficking and exploitation.

They also stated that their importance is only recognised in their absence, and even then, only in hushed tones. Despite International Labour Organisation (ILO) conventions, various private bills, and numerous promises, no legislative framework exists to protect them.