Set up panel to safeguard domestic workers: SC

The ruling marks a significant intervention in the ongoing debate over labour rights in India

- Utkarsh Anand

NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court on Wednesday lamented the lack of statutory protection for millions of domestic workers across the country, while urging the Union government to enact a comprehensive law to safeguard their rights and directing the Centre to constitute a committee to examine within six months the feasibility of such a legislative framework.

A bench, led by Justice Surya Kant, described the exploitation of domestic workers and lack of legal protection as a pressing national concern, and underscored the urgent need for legislative intervention for a "critical workforce" that keeps the homes running while being denied their own basic rights.