Over 500 Domestic Workers Rally in Guwahati Demanding Legal Protection

Over 500 Domestic Workers Rally in Guwahati Demanding Legal Protection

More than 500 domestic workers gathered in the Chachal area of Guwahati on March 7, demanding the introduction of a dedicated law to ensure social security, dignity, and protection for people working in households across Assam.

The rally was organised under the leadership of the Grihakarmi Adhikar Suraksha Samiti and the Sadou Guwahati Grihakarmi Union, bringing together domestic workers from various parts of the city to highlight their concerns about working conditions and the lack of legal safeguards.

Over 500 domestic workers gathered in Chachal, Guwahati, on March 7, demanding a dedicated law to ensure social security, dignity, and legal protection for domestic workers. The rally was organised by the Grihakarmi Adhikar Suraksha Samiti and Sadou Guwahati Grihakarmi Union.

Workers Demand Social Security and Legal Recognition

Participants at the rally said domestic workers form a significant part of the urban workforce, especially in growing cities like Guwahati.

However, many workers continue to operate without formal recognition, legal safeguards, or social security benefits.

Speakers at the programme emphasised that domestic workers perform essential tasks such as:

• Household cleaning
• Cooking and childcare
• Elderly care
• Other daily household services

Despite their contribution, organisers said these workers often remain invisible in labour policies and welfare frameworks.

Concerns Over Exploitation and Unfair Working Conditions

Speakers at the gathering pointed out that the absence of clear laws and regulatory mechanisms leaves many domestic workers vulnerable to exploitation.

According to organisers, several workers across the country face issues such as:

• Irregular or unpaid wages
• Excessive working hours
• Lack of job security
• Harassment and abuse in workplaces

They stated that many domestic workers also lack access to healthcare, insurance, and retirement benefits, making them financially vulnerable.

Growing Workforce in Expanding Cities

As cities like Guwahati continue to expand, the demand for domestic workers has increased significantly.

Urban households increasingly rely on domestic help for managing daily chores and caregiving responsibilities.

However, labour groups say this growing demand has not been matched by adequate legal protections or welfare schemes for workers.

National and International Attention on Domestic Workers’ Rights

The issue of domestic workers’ rights has been discussed both nationally and globally.

In 2011, the International Labour Conference adopted Convention No. 189, which focuses on ensuring decent working conditions and legal protection for domestic workers.

The convention recognises domestic work as legitimate labour and calls for policies that guarantee:

• Fair wages
• Safe working conditions
• Legal recognition
• Social protection measures

Activists and labour organisations have been urging governments to adopt similar frameworks to protect domestic workers.

Call for Policy Action in Assam

Organisers of the rally urged policymakers to consider framing specific legislation or welfare measures that address the needs of domestic workers in Assam.

They said the objective is not only to improve working conditions but also to ensure dignity, safety, and long-term social security for workers who play an important role in urban households.

What Happens Next

Worker unions and advocacy groups said they plan to continue raising the issue through public discussions, awareness programmes, and engagement with authorities.

They expressed hope that the concerns raised during the rally in Guwahati would lead to policy discussions and possible legislative action in the future.

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