By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Jan 11: The state Cabinet has announced the revision of minimum wages across all categories of workers in Meghalaya, but the Khun Hynniewtrep National Awakening Movement (KHNAM) has noted that that several government departments often delay implementing the revised wage rates, even as it commended the Cabinet’s decision.
Therefore, the KHNAM, on Friday, urged the state government to direct all departments to promptly implement the revised minimum wages in accordance with the provisions of the Minimum Wages Act, 1948.
KHNAM working president Thomas A Passah said that the party had previously written to the Labour department, urging it to ensure timely implementation of the revised wages across departments. He further highlighted that many departments fail to pay arrears owed to employees due to delays in implementing the revised wages, leaving workers at a disadvantage.
As per the Cabinet’s decision on Friday, the revised minimum wage rates have increased. Unskilled workers will now receive Rs 525 per day, up from Rs 419. Semi-skilled workers will earn Rs 565 per day, up from Rs 474. Skilled workers are entitled to Rs 605 per day, an increase from Rs 530, while highly skilled workers will now receive Rs 654 per day, up from Rs 586.
Passah expressed satisfaction that the government has finally addressed their year-long demand to revise minimum wages.
He remarked, “We are not fully satisfied with the state government’s decision, but something is better than nothing. This move will benefit many casual and contractual workers.”
