Supreme Court urges law for domestic workers
Red Book
Red Book

Mains Guidance Program (MGP) for UPSC CSE 2026, Cohort-1 starts 11th February 2025. Registrations Open Click Here to know more and registration.

Source: The post Supreme Court urges law for domestic workers has been created, based on the article “India needs a law to protect domestic workers’ rights” published in “Indian Express” on 3rd February 2025

Supreme Court urges law for domestic workers

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper2- Governance-mechanisms, laws, institutions and Bodies constituted for the protection and betterment of these vulnerable sections.

Context: The article discusses the Supreme Court’s directive to the Union government to consider a law for domestic workers. It highlights their low wages, job insecurity, and lack of social security. It stresses the need for legal protection, fair wages, and better working conditions.

For detailed information on Domestic Workers in India: Status and Issues read this article here

What is the Supreme Court view on Domestic Workers?

  1. The Supreme Court directed the Union government to examine the need for a law for domestic workers.
  2. It ordered an inter-ministerial committee to consider a legal framework for their rights.
  3. The Court noted that domestic workers lack legal protection and are excluded from laws like the Minimum Wages Act and the Equal Remuneration Act.
  4. It highlighted that wages vary even within the same locality.
  5. It stressed the need for a national law applicable to all states.

What Problems Do Domestic Workers Face?

  1. Low Wages: Their wages are not fixed. The same work may have different wages even in the same area.
  2. Unfair Working Conditions: They are often forced to do extra work without pay.
  3. No Social Security: They lack pensions, insurance, or job security.
  4. Harassment and Mistreatment: Many face abuse and humiliation from employers. These cases rarely reach the media.
  5. Lack of Recognition: Society views their work as unskilled. Their work is undervalued.

Why Is a National Law Needed?

  1. State-Level Disparities: Some states like Kerala and Delhi have regulations, but there is no uniform law.
  2. Enforcement Challenge: Employers do not register workers, making proof of employment difficult.
  3. Judicial Interventions: Courts have directed documentation and registration of placement agencies, but these efforts have had little impact.

Has India Taken International Steps?

India has not ratified ILO Convention 189, which protects domestic workers’ rights. This convention recognizes domestic work as decent work. Many countries have ratified it, but India has not.

What Are the Challenges in Implementing a Law?

  • Employer Resistance: Many employers may refuse to register workers.
  • Proof of Employment: Workers may struggle to provide proof.
  • Enforcement Issues: Even if a law exists, ensuring compliance will be difficult.

Conclusion

The government’s response to the Supreme Court’s directive is crucial. The committee’s report will be key in shaping policies. The law must consider the concerns of domestic worker unions. It must also address local and regional issues.

Question for practice:

Evaluate the need for a national law to protect the rights of domestic workers in India.


Discover more from Free UPSC IAS Preparation Syllabus and Materials For Aspirants

Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.

Print Friendly and PDF
Blog
Academy
Community