For years now, May 1 has been observed as a day to pay homage to labourers, daily-wage earners, and the poor segment of the working class.
One should not forget that it is because of these very people that the foundation of any city stands; it is because of these very people that nations call themselves developed; and it is because of these people that the lives of the privileged become privileged.
Countries around the world owe their successes and development to these hard-working, low-paid individuals.
Let’s take the example of our brotherly countries in the Arabian Peninsula.
Half a century ago, these countries were mere deserts. Today, they stand tall, competing with many Western nations in terms of infrastructure development, modernism, and per capita income.
These countries boast about their landmarks: Dubai about the Burj Al Khalifa, Qatar about its football stadiums, and Saudi Arabia about its Makkah Clock Royal Tower.
This could never have been possible if it were not for the thousands of labourers who toil all their lives for meagre returns.
Even in Pakistan, the motorways, the massive housing projects, and the skyscrapers in Islamabad, Lahore, and Karachi stand out, thanks to the labourers and daily-wage workers.
In short, these workers are the engines of development. But, when it comes to wages, almost all countries follow the same pattern – minimum wages with no perks.
Pakistan is no different. It falls into the category of countries with the lowest minimum wage. The minimum wage that an employer is bound to pay is Rs25,000. However, this amount was recently raised to Rs32,000 in Punjab on the directives of the province’s caretaker chief minister, Mohsin Naqvi.
However, with the cost of living spiralling out of control in the country, a normal household cannot even survive on an income of Rs 32,000-what to say about Rs25,000.
According to official statistics, inflation hit an all-time high of 38 per cent in April due to increases in the prices of food items and petroleum products. The trend is expected to continue for the next few months.
The short-term inflation measured by the Sensitive Price Indicator (SPI) was recorded at 46.8 percent last week, slightly lower than the 47.2 per cent witnessed a week ago, whereas the monthly inflation calculated by the Consumer Price Index (CPI) was 35.4 per cent in March, which was the highest on record.
According to the finance ministry, the depreciation of the rupee and rising prices had led to an increase in overall prices.
Besides, shortages of commodities as a result of low yields due to damage to crops caused by floods had also hiked prices.
The country is facing significant challenges due to high inflation and slow economic activity.
In the wake of this scenario, to expect a labourer to survive on his meager income is asking way too much.
During these trying times, the government should extend a helping hand to the common man, and revise the minimum wage, keeping in view the current state of inflation.
This class has contributed a lot to the country’s development, therefore, the state needs to do something for its development.
