The national policy for domestic workers is likely to be presented before the Union Cabinet soon.Those hiring a full-time domestic help might soon have to pay them a minimum salary of Rs 9,000 per month, compulsory paid leave of 15 days a year, and maternity leave to boot.
To safeguard the interest of domestic workers, the National Democratic Alliance government is readying a national policy incorporating these features, besides a host of benefits, including social security cover and provisions against sexual harassment and bonded labour.
Also,Domestic servants, who stare at an uncertain future will now have the pleasure of a social security scheme under which his employer will have a mandatory contribution.
The policy further grants the right to domestic helps to pursue education, a safe work environment and a mechanism for redress of their grievances.
Once the policy takes effect, it will be mandatory for the employer, the employee and the intermediary agency that connects the two, to enter into a tripartite agreement, which will have legal sanctity.
The policy recommends minimum monthly wage for unskilled, semi-skilled, skilled and highly-skilled categories of the domestic workers.
