Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah on Friday paid tribute to workers across the globe on International Labour Day, extending a ‘red salute’ to the labour force and reaffirming his government’s commitment to safeguarding their rights and improving their quality of life.
In his message issued on May 1, the CM said the Sindh government was actively uplifting the workers’ living standards through labour-friendly policies and landmark legislation aimed at curbing exploitation. He highlighted that the Sindh Assembly had enacted historic laws to protect workers, ensuring greater security and dignity for the labour force.
Shah underscored the significance of the Benazir Mazdoor Card, stating that it was providing social protection to millions of families across the province. “The working class is my strength and support; there will be no compromise on their rights,” he asserted.
He noted that Sindh was the first province in Pakistan to grant legal protection to agricultural workers, marking a major step towards inclusive labour rights. From the coalfields of Thar to the industrial hubs of Karachi, he said, the wheel of the economy rotated due to the hard work and resilience of workers.
The CM also directed strict enforcement of the minimum monthly wage across the province, emphasising that economic stability and industrial peace were impossible without the prosperity of labourers. He reiterated that the government’s guiding manifesto of ‘Roti, Kapra aur Makaan’ (bread, clothing and shelter) was intrinsically linked to the well-being of the working class.
Calling Labour Day a moment to honour both the martyrs of Chicago and the hard-working labourers of Pakistan, Shah pledged to further enhance access to education and health care for the workers’ children. He added that efforts were under way to equip workers with modern skills, enabling them to compete in international markets.
“The workers of Sindh have supported the country’s economy in every difficult hour,” he said, adding that their dedication to work and prayers remained the true driving force behind the province’s progress.
