The condition of women domestic workers in India is deplorable. They form the majority of those employed in middle class homes. They provide the essentials of living as they clean up these homes. They are also badly treated in other countries. They have no rights, no unionized strength. They are most exploited and often vulnerable to economic, mental, physical and even sexual abuse. Other countries are trying to do something about the problem. Policies are being adopted and changes made.
Brazil has limited daily and weekly working hours for women domestic workers. Overtime pay has been introduced as well as unemployment insurance since March, 2013. Spain has worked out compulsory social security schemes for them, extended minimum wages and ensured weekly, annual and maternity leave. Thailand has followed suit. India has also become aware and voted for adopting the Domestic Workers’ Convention. That will mean job security for women domestic workers, weekly off days, paid leave, etc. The Unorganized Social Security Act was passed in 2008 but most of the proposals remain unimplemented. It is difficult to register domestic workers. Besides, they are often not aware of their rights. The solution lies in instructing employers. There is a reverse side. Daily part time women workers have a sellers’ market and take advantage of the absence of rules and regulations. They charge exorbitant rates and have to be persuaded to come to work on the mobile phone. They all have these instruments which indicate their relative well-being. They cannot be penalized for their absence or unauthorized leave for a long stretch.
