How is Kharge Advocating for Social Security for the Unorganised Sector on INTUC Foundation Day?
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Synopsis
On INTUC Foundation Day, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge passionately called for comprehensive social security measures for the unorganised sector, highlighting the importance of protecting gig workers, agricultural labourers, and artisans. His remarks come at a time when India's unorganised workforce faces significant challenges in terms of labour rights and protections.
Key Takeaways
- Mallikarjun Kharge stresses the need for social security for unorganised workers.
- The INTUC celebrates its 78th Foundation Day.
- Kharge honors past leaders who fought for labour rights.
- Calls for unity among gig workers, agricultural laborers, and artisans.
- Raises awareness about the lack of formal protections for the unorganised workforce.
New Delhi, May 3 (NationPress) On Saturday, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge emphasized the essential need for a comprehensive social security framework for the unorganised sector, which encompasses gig workers, agricultural labourers, artisans, and casual workers, in pursuit of social justice during the Foundation Day celebrations of the Indian National Trade Union Congress (INTUC).
Commemorating the 78th foundation day of INTUC, Kharge paid homage to the generations of workers and leaders who have tirelessly fought for labour rights in India.
“As INTUC marks its 78 years, I express my heartfelt appreciation to the innumerable members and workers who have advocated for labour rights,” Kharge stated in a message on X.
He acknowledged the pivotal contributions of luminaries such as Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, G. Ramanujam, Jagjivan Ram, Aruna Asaf Ali, S.K. Patil, Gulzari Lal Nanda, Harihar Nath Shastri, S.P. Sen, and G.D. Ambekar in establishing an organization devoted to safeguarding the rights and dignity of the working class, guided by Gandhian principles.
“As we commemorate INTUC's foundation day today, it is crucial to amplify our voices regarding new challenges such as the social security of the unorganised sector, including gig & platform workers, khet-mazdoors, artisans, and casual workers, by organizing and integrating them into broader social justice objectives,” he added.
Kharge’s statements arise amidst rising concerns about the absence of formal protections for India’s extensive unorganised workforce, which is largely excluded from many labour rights safeguards.
Founded on May 3, 1947, just prior to India's Independence, the INTUC adopted its constitution on the second day of its conference, receiving blessings from Mahatma Gandhi for this new trade union center.
Since its inception, INTUC has fostered a close relationship with the Congress party.
Point of View
It is essential to recognize the urgency of Kharge's call for social security in the unorganised sector. The lack of formal protections for millions of workers in India reflects a critical gap in our labor rights framework. His emphasis on organizing these workers is a step toward achieving social justice and ensuring their rights are upheld.
NationPress
03/05/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the INTUC?
The Indian National Trade Union Congress (INTUC) is a trade union federation in India founded on May 3, 1947, aimed at protecting the rights and interests of workers.
Why is social security important for the unorganised sector?
Social security provides essential protections and benefits for unorganised workers, including financial security, healthcare, and support during unemployment, which are crucial for their well-being.
Who are considered unorganised workers?
Unorganised workers include gig workers, agricultural labourers, artisans, and casual workers who often lack formal employment contracts and protections.
What did Kharge emphasize in his speech?
Kharge highlighted the need for comprehensive social security measures and the importance of organizing unorganised workers to achieve social justice.
How does INTUC relate to the Congress Party?
Since its establishment, the INTUC has maintained a close relationship with the Congress Party, advocating for labor rights and protections.
