CM's concern over underpaid private sector employees

A Correspondent

SHILLONG, April 13:  Chief Minister, Conrad K Sangma on Friday said that his Government was aware of the hardships faced by employees working in the private sector who are underpaid.

Replying to a query posed by KHNAM legislator from North Shillong, Adelbert Nongrum, during the Question Hour, Conrad said, “We are also concerned about the people who do not get basic wages they deserve under the Minimum Wages Act, 1948.”

The Chief Minister also informed that a State Government appointed committee known as the Minimum Wages State Advisory Board, regularly meets and advises the Government regarding fixation and revision of minimum wages.

Congress MLA from East Shillong, Ampareen Lyngdoh took up the issue of muster roll workers in technical departments like the PWD and the PHE. Lyngdoh wanted the Government to upgrade their skills so that there can be advancement for them in their careers.

According to her these muster roll workers continue to work for years together under the same wages.

Earlier, Conrad informed the House that the minimum wage for casual workers and daily wage earners is determined under the Minimum Wages Act, 1948.

“Minimum wages is revised every six months based on Consumer Price Index linked to Variable Dearness Allowance,” the Chief Minister told the House.