(a)whether there are no codified rules of service condition for domestic workers to regulate working conditions of domestic workers;
(b)if so, the reasons therefor;
(c)the reaction of the Government thereto;
(d)whether domestic workers are being exploited because of absence of such service conditions and regulations and if so, the details thereof; and
(e)the remedial measures taken by the Government in this regard?
MINISTER OF STATE (IC) FOR LABOUR AND EMPLOYMENT
(SHRI SANTOSH KUMAR GANGWAR)
(a) to (c): The central Government has not enacted any separate law to protect the interest of domestic workers. However the central Government has enacted the Unorganized Workers’ Social Security Act, 2008 for providing social security to all unorganized workers including domestic workers. The Act provides formulation of social security schemes viz. life and disability cover, health and maternity benefits & old age protection by the central Government. The state Government are mandated under the Unorganized Workers’ Social Security Act, 2008 to formulate suitable welfare schemes for
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unorganized sector workers including domestic workers relating to provident fund, employment injury benefits housing, education schemes for children, skill up gradation of workers, financial assistance & old age homes.
(d) & (e): A draft National Policy on domestic workers is under consideration of the Central Government. The salient features of the draft policy are as under:-
i. Inclusion of Domestic Workers in the existing legislations
ii. Domestic workers will have the right to register as workers. Such registration will facilitate their access to rights & benefits accruing to them as workers.
iii. Right to form their own associations , trade unions
iv. Right to have minimum wages, access to social security, protection from abuse, harassment, violence
v. Right to enhance their professional skills
vi. Protection of Domestic Workers from abuse and exploitation
vii. Domestic Workers to have access to courts, tribunals, etc.
viii. Establishment of a mechanism for regulation of concerned placement agencies
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