Stakeholders have urged the Punjab government to enforce the Minimum Wages Notification 2025 across the brick kiln sector and to implement strict compliance mechanisms.
Consultation on the “Minimum Wages Framework for Brick Kiln Workers in Punjab” brought together government officials, legal experts, labour representatives, employers, civil society members, and lawmakers to discuss enforcement gaps and potential policy reforms.
The Bonded Labour Liberation Front Pakistan organised the workshop, chaired by its General Secretary, Syeda Ghulam Fatima, who highlighted that brick kiln workers remain among the most vulnerable groups despite existing legal safeguards.
She stressed that implementing minimum wage laws is both a legal duty and a moral responsibility, calling for stricter enforcement, increased inspections, and stronger accountability.
Legal experts, including Syed Ayaz Hussain, Mahar Safdar Ali, and others, reviewed the Minimum Wages Notification and underscored the need for firm implementation and oversight. Representing the government, Zubair Butt shared the Labour and Human Resource Department’s ongoing efforts to improve compliance in the sector.
Field insights presented by workers’ representatives pointed to persistent issues such as underpayment, lack of registration, and operational challenges affecting both labourers and kiln owners.
Hina Pervaiz Butt emphasised the importance of safeguarding labour rights, particularly for women, noting that female workers often face wage discrimination and limited social protection. She called for gender-sensitive policies and improved monitoring systems.
Participants concluded that coordinated action among all stakeholders is essential to eliminate bonded labour and ensure workers receive fair wages. A set of joint recommendations and an advocacy plan were developed following detailed discussions.
Key proposals included setting standardised piece rates, abolishing the advance (peshgi) system, strengthening inspections, introducing sector-specific legislation, and engaging with provincial leadership on the issue.
Stakeholders also called for zero tolerance toward bonded labour, enhanced legal enforcement with penalties for violations, and activation of district vigilance committees. The need for a comprehensive worker registration system was highlighted to ensure legal protection, wage tracking, and access to social security through digitised records.
Further recommendations focused on expanding welfare measures such as healthcare, education for workers’ children, safe working conditions, and housing facilities, along with inclusion in social protection programmes. Participants also stressed raising awareness about labour rights and improving access to legal aid.
The forum proposed establishing a permanent coordination platform involving government, employers, unions, and civil society to monitor progress and address challenges. Lawmakers pledged to raise the issue at provincial and national levels, advocating stronger legislation, adequate funding, and effective oversight.
Special emphasis was placed on gender equality, including equal pay, safe workplaces, CNIC issuance for women workers, union registration, and maternity protections.
