Vashi:  On the occasion of International Domestic Workers’ Day, nearly 800 domestic workers, activists, and allies from across the Greater Mumbai region converged in Vashi to attend the ‘Domestic Workers Parliament’. The event, held on June 17 was jointly organised by YUVA and the Maharashtra Domestic Workers’ Coordination Committee.

The day commemorates the adoption of ILO Convention No. 189, which affirms the rights of domestic workers and calls for their protection under labour laws. The event also marked the conclusion of the statewide campaign “Aapla Khasdar – Pratibaddh Khasdar (Our MP – Committed MP), launched on June 1, aimed at demanding urgent legislation for the welfare and protection of domestic workers.

Justice BG Kolse-Patil, retired, Bombay High Court, inaugurated the event. In his keynote address, he shared his own experience of having worked as a labourer. Addressing the domestic workers, he said, “You are like my mother. I am one of you.”

He urged the gathering to continue their struggle, especially in light of the recent Supreme Court directive to the central government to draft comprehensive legislation for domestic workers. He also encouraged them to educate their children and secure a better future for the next generation.

One of the event’s most moving moments came during the session titled Meri Kahani, Meri Zubani (My Story, In My Own Words), where six women domestic workers shared personal stories. From false accusations of theft and unsafe work environments to the lack of support to sustain their children’s education and the need for pension during old age – the litany of woes of the domestic workers opened a window into the challenges they face daily.

Com. Uday Bhat, convenor, Maharashtra Domestic Workers’ Coordination Committee, criticised the central government for its inaction, pointing out that six months have passed since the Supreme Court’s ruling without the formation of a required committee. He also called for the full and effective implementation of the Maharashtra Domestic Workers Welfare Board Act (2008).

Noted legal expert Adv. Gayatri Singh and Neela Limaye of the Maharashtra Mahila Parishad, and senior journalist Raina Asainar domestic workers must be officially recognised as workers, not merely informal help, and must be granted full labour rights and social dignity.