Domestic workers encouraged to fight for medical rights
Source: Hueiyen News Service / Newmai News Network
Shillong, January 09 2012:
The Vice Chairman of the Meghalaya State Law Commission, F.Lyngdoh today encouraged the domestic workers in Meghalaya to fight for inclusion of medical rights.
Speaking at the International Domestic Workers' Day organized by North Eastern Region Domestic Workers' Movement, Lyngdoh said other workers belonging to organised sectors have been included under the Medical Insurance Scheme.
She said this scheme has been very help to the workers and it should be extended to the domestic workers as well.
Lyngdoh said the scheme is now meant for getting treatment for small ailments, but for serious sicknesses.
"The Constitution of India under the Fundamental Rights provides for the rights to life", Lyngdoh said, adding that all the people of this country should also have the right with human dignity.
"We provisions of law ensures that we should not live like animals, but we should live as human beings with honour and dignity.
Lyngdoh also informed the domestic workers that they have not been covered under the Sexual Harassment in Work Places Act because all their rights have been covered un the Domestic Violence Act.
"All the harassment, intimidation including non-payment of their wages should attract the Domestic Violence Act", she said adding that if they face any of the problems, they can approach the Protection Officer of the Social Welfare Department to assist them if their rights have been violated.
She also urged the domestic workers to do their best while performing their duties and the rest
would automatically flow.