LAHORE: The Punjab government has decided to draft a legislation which will allow domestic staff to have a weekly holiday.
According to sources, domestic staff will be ensured protection after they are brought under the ambit of labour laws.
The amendments to the present labour laws will allow staff working in houses salaries along with weekly holidays.
The Global Slavery Index has revealed that Pakistan has the third highest population of such labourers. Campaigners estimate there are more than two million Pakistanis trapped in a vicious cycle of debt bondage to factory owners that continues for generations, a practice often referred to as modern slavery.
However, authorities concerned have been taking measures to eliminate the concept of modern slavery so that these workers can enjoy the rights they deserve.
Previously, in 2016, the Punjab government began a scheme under which, approximately 88,000 child brick kiln workers were selected for a stipend comprising an initial $20 per child, followed by a recurring monthly payment of $10. The initiative reportedly lowered the opportunity cost of not sending children to school allowed families to pay their debts.
