Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Oct 21: The Labour Commissioner, J&K, S Charandeep Singh, today chaired an interaction program at the Labour Sarai Complex, Dogra Hall, Rehari Jammu.
The event, attended by representatives from various labour unions, focused on key concerns related to workers’ rights, safety, and welfare.
The programme saw participation from prominent unions including the Bhartiya Mazdoor Sangh, Marble Workers Union, Bhawan Nirman Workers Union, and ASCOMS Employees Welfare Association.
As per a statement, discussions centered on a range of issues, notably the reconstitution of the Unorganised Sector Workers Welfare Board and the exemption of mandatory Ayushman card requirements for unorganised workers under the Building and Other Construction Workers (BOCCW) welfare scheme.
A particularly sensitive issue raised was the demand for compensation for workers killed in targeted attacks, including those in Ganderbal.
The unions called for the State Government to take immediate steps to provide support to the families of victims.
The Labour Commissioner also took the opportunity to engage with the media, highlighting the department’s future plans to improve working conditions.
Among these was the introduction of a ‘Close Day’ for shops and establishments, aimed at ensuring better work-life balance for employees.
In a gesture of solidarity, the Bhartiya Mazdoor Sangh donated a water cooler to the Assistant Labour Commissioner’s office in memory of Late Laxman Raviinder Singh, the founder of BMS J&K.
The unions, including the Bhartiya Mazdoor Sangh, appreciated the initiatives taken by the Labour Commissioner, particularly the ‘Close Day’ proposal.
They have decided to submit a formal memorandum to the Labour Commissioner, which he has agreed to consider in principle.
The event was attended by a large gathering, including the Deputy Labour Commissioner Jammu, Assistant Labour Commissioner, Inspector of Factories Jammu, Labour Officers, Inspectors, and staff from various Labour Department offices.