Karachi: The Sindh Assembly has passed the Sindh Domestic Workers Welfare Bill, introducing major legal protections for domestic workers across the province, including maternity leave, weekly holidays, minimum wages, and restrictions on child labour.
According to Beyond Time News, the bill has now been sent to Governor Syed Muhammad Nehal Hashmi for final approval before becoming law.
Major Rights Introduced for Domestic Workers
The new legislation aims to formally regulate the employment conditions of domestic workers in Sindh.
Under the proposed law, domestic employees will officially be referred to as “domestic workers” instead of “servants,” marking an important shift toward recognising their professional rights and dignity.
Moreover, the bill covers working hours, leave entitlements, wages, and workplace protections.
Weekly Holidays and Working Hour Limits
According to the bill, full-time and live-in domestic workers cannot be forced to work more than eight hours per day or six days a week.
Additionally, employers must provide at least one weekly holiday.
If a worker performs duties on the seventh day, the employer will have to pay double wages for that day.
These provisions aim to improve work-life balance and reduce exploitation in domestic employment.
Paid Eid Holidays and Leave Benefits
The legislation also introduces several paid leave benefits for domestic workers.
Workers will receive paid holidays during religious festivals, including Eid holidays with salary.
Furthermore, domestic employees will be entitled to:
- 10 casual leaves annually with full pay
- 8 sick leaves annually with salary
- Paid public holiday benefits
As a result, domestic workers in Sindh may receive legal protections similar to those available in other formal employment sectors.
Six Weeks of Paid Maternity Leave
One of the most significant features of the bill is maternity protection for female domestic workers.
According to Beyond Time News, women employed as domestic workers will receive six weeks of paid maternity leave under the new law.
Labour rights activists have welcomed the move, calling it an important step toward improving protections for women working in private households.
Child Labour Restrictions Included
The bill also places strict limits on child labour in domestic work.
Authorities have completely banned the employment of children under 16 years of age as domestic workers.
Meanwhile, teenagers between 16 and 18 years old may only perform light work that does not negatively affect their health, education, or overall well-being.
These measures aim to strengthen child protection laws and discourage exploitative labour practices.
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Minimum Wage Protection
Another important provision requires employers to pay domestic workers at least the minimum wage announced by the Sindh government.
Consequently, employers who fail to comply with wage regulations may face legal consequences once the law takes effect.
Law to Take Effect After Governor’s Approval
The bill has now been forwarded to the Sindh governor for approval.
Once signed, the law will immediately come into force across the province.
Experts believe the legislation could significantly improve labour protections for thousands of domestic workers in Sindh.
FAQs
What is the Sindh Domestic Workers Welfare Bill?
It is a new law passed by the Sindh Assembly to protect the rights of domestic workers.
What benefits does the bill provide?
The bill includes weekly holidays, paid leave, maternity leave, minimum wages, and regulated working hours.
Is child labour banned under the law?
Yes, children under 16 cannot work as domestic workers.
How much maternity leave is included?
Female domestic workers will receive six weeks of paid maternity leave.
When will the law come into effect?
The law will take effect after approval from the Sindh governor.
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