The Plight Of Female Domestic Workers In India (By Riya Nagpal)
Domestic workers are not even regarded as 'workers' in
the societal structure as a by-product of this; their participation is not
considered as "productive labour" that contributes to the nation's “socio-economic progress. This concept has a particularly
negative impact on female workers since their employment is just perceived as a
continuation of their” "innate duty or obligation"
“to the house and housekeeping. The ILO
has established regulations to preserve and safeguard the rights of domestic
workers. At the same time, the Indian legislature has established minimum rules
and regulations to safeguard workers; nevertheless, they do not realistically
aid these workers in protecting their rights. Furthermore, Indian laws are not
in agreement with ILO principles, necessitating the states ratification of the ILO
convention rules and the passage of rigorous legislation in accordance. It is
consequently necessary to enact central legislation on working conditions,
minimum salaries, and housing for domestic workers, with model standards that
the state governments must follow in line with local situations. Furthermore,
to carry out the registration procedures of the Social Security Act in a fair
and unrestrictive manner so that its benefits can be realized. Implementing
universal social security measures, such as food availability, universal
healthcare, and free schooling, would be very advantageous to domestic workers
among various socio-economic locations.” Domestic workers' “difficulties cannot be addressed in a
vacuum. They are manifestations of greater concerns that must be handled as
such. The specific legal arrangements for domestic workers mentioned in this
research must function in tandem with other socioeconomic security initiatives.”