Call to ensure minimum wage and social security coverage for all workers

Dhangadhi: Despite the government setting minimum wage standards for workers, full implementation has yet to be achieved.

Workers in the transport sector, in particular, have raised concerns over not being included in the social security fund alongside the minimum wage provisions. Transport workers in the Far West have demanded that all workers be brought under the contribution-based social security fund in addition to receiving the state-mandated minimum wage.

Labour leaders have expressed dissatisfaction, stating that both the government and employers have not shown adequate commitment to ensuring workers’ safety, dignity, and labour rights. Lalit Chand, President of the Nepal Transport Independent Workers' Organization, Sudurpaschim Province, emphasized the need to include all transport workers in the social security fund to safeguard both workers and their families. He noted that many workers are still deprived of minimum wages, insurance, and social security benefits.

Jit Bahadur Malla, President of the Federation of Nepal Trade Unions (GEFNT), Sudurpaschim, stated that workers across all sectors, including transport, should be incorporated into the social security fund. He added that participation in the fund would provide long-term benefits to both workers and employers, and stressed the need to make its implementation mandatory.

Bhim Jwala Rai, Central President of the Nepal Transport Independent Workers' Organization, highlighted that meaningful reform in the transport sector is not possible without ensuring the rights, safety, and dignity of drivers and co-drivers. He stressed that both workers and employers should regularly contribute to the fund, and called for revisions to transport policy, effective implementation of road safety measures, and practical reforms.

Labour representatives have also pointed out that many transport workers continue to operate under unsafe conditions. They have urged the government and relevant authorities to take concrete steps to enforce minimum wage provisions, ensure mandatory inclusion in the social security fund, and guarantee a safe and respectful working environment.