Staff Reporter

ITANAGAR, MAY 20:

The Arunachal Pradesh Workers Welfare Society (APWWS) on Wednesday reiterated its demand for strict action against the illegal supply and engagement of inter-state migrant workers and contract labourers in the state.

Addressing a press conference at the Arunachal Press Club here, APWWS acting president Karbia Sonam alleged that certain individuals, contractors and agencies are supplying labourers to both government and private sectors without obtaining proper licences as mandated under the relevant labour laws.

He stated that authorities are required to issue labour licences or Registration of Establishments under the Contract Labour (Regulation and Abolition) Act, 1970, and under the Inter-State Migrant Workmen (Regulation of Employment and Conditions of Service) Act, 1979.

Claiming that lack of strict enforcement of these Acts has led to exploitation of workers, Sonam further alleged that the unchecked influx of people from other states poses risks to the security and safety of women in Arunachal Pradesh.

“To strengthen the safety measures of citizens, the state government must frame a proper policy to resolve the issue once and for all,” he said, adding that such practices also disturb fair labour practices and wage structures.

The Society also alleged that several contractors are arbitrarily deciding and paying minimum wages in violation of prescribed government guidelines.

Further, the APWWS cautioned that it would initiate legal action on its own if the state government fails to formulate a proper policy to restrain illegal entry and supply of labourers into the state.

Sonam also informed that the Society has submitted a memorandum to the Itanagar Capital Region Deputy Commissioner regarding the alleged illegal supply of labourers.