Staff Reporter
DIMAPUR, JUN 15 (NPN): Centre for Development Initiatives (CDI), Dimapur, observed International Domestic Workers’ Day on June 16 at Zeliangrong Village Community Hall under the theme “Recognizing Domestic Workers: Rights, Dignity and Decent Work for All.”
The programme celebrated the contributions of domestic workers while raising awareness about challenges they face. Resource person, District Legal Services Authority (DDLSA) Dimapur panel lawyer, Thiuswangwiliu, highlighted the global significance of the day and informed that free legal aid and counselling are available through DDLSA, particularly for women, children and those facing financial or social difficulties.
She emphasised that domestic workers play a vital role in strengthening the economy through caregiving, housekeeping and home management, enabling employers to pursue professional responsibilities. Stressing dignity, fair wages and safe working conditions, she urged workers not to tolerate exploitation or harassment and to seek support from CDI or legal authorities.
Thiuswangwiliu also advised workers to access government healthcare services, ensure proper documentation during pregnancy to avail benefits, and highlighted a Supreme Court ruling assigning homemakers and domestic workers a baseline value of Rs. 30,000 per month for accident compensation claims. She cautioned against child labour, reiterating that employing children below 14 years in domestic work is prohibited by law.
She further underscored the importance of formal employment agreements between workers and employers to safeguard rights related to wages, working hours and leave.
The programme was chaired by CDI field animator Kuphuvili Lohe, who delivered the welcome address, and concluded with a vote of thanks by CDI field animator Nzanboni R. Ezung.