NA committee flags poor enforcement of minimum wage

Representational image of a person showing his empty wallet. — Unsplash/file

KARACHI: The Standing Committee of the National Assembly on Industries and Production on Wednesday expressed dissatisfaction with the Ministry of Industries and Production over its failure to enforce the minimum wage of Rs37,000 across the country.

The committee, chaired by MNA Syed Hafeezuddin, convened at the Pakistan Steel Mills Conference Room to address critical issues, including the enforcement of the minimum wage and the future of the Utility Stores Corporation (USC).

During the session, MNA Rafiullah voiced concerns over the lack of implementation of the minimum wage despite existing labour laws. He emphasised the need for the ministry to take immediate and decisive action to ensure compliance.

The committee noted that the finance minister had announced the Rs37,000 minimum wage during the budget speech, instructing relevant institutions to issue notifications for its enforcement. However, the Ministry of Industries and Production admitted that, while directives were issued to industrial units in Sindh, compliance remains inconsistent, with significant enforcement gaps.

Expressing frustration, the committee called for stronger measures, including the revocation of licences for non-compliant companies. Chairman Syed Hafeezuddin reiterated that while the ministry has been urged repeatedly to address the issue it has failed to take sufficient action. The committee also recommended cabinet intervention to ensure the nationwide enforcement of the minimum wage.

Separately, the committee discussed the future of the Utility Stores Corporation (USC). MNA Nafeesa Shah raised concerns over conflicting statements from the government, highlighting discrepancies between the minister’s assurances in the National Assembly and the Cabinet Committee’s position. While the minister claimed there were no plans to close the USC but instead restructure it, other government communications suggest otherwise.

The committee has requested the minister’s presence at the next meeting to clarify the government’s stance and provide a comprehensive explanation.

The committee also reviewed grievances raised by labour unions, particularly those involving Pakistan Steel Mills employees. It recommended a thorough review and compilation of cases affecting retired employees, current staff and long-serving workers, aiming for fair and transparent resolutions. Further updates on these matters are expected as progress continues.