Continuing their opposition to the Delhi government’s recent decision to hike minimum wages in the Capital, representatives of over a hundred traders, hoteliers, transporters and industry associations on Saturday called on Labour Minister Gopal Rai suggesting “a middle path solution”.
Organised by the Aam Aadmi Party’s (AAP) Trade Wing, which had initially threatened a strike over the decision, those opposed to the move have now suggested that the provisions of the hike be made “voluntary” instead of binding on the private sector.“We have suggested that the decision to hike minimum wages should be extended only to government employees and that the government allow the private sector to be out of it because the latter simply cannot afford it,” said Brijesh Goyal, AAP Trade Wing Convenor.
‘Will meet Kejriwal’
“The decision will lead to industry moving out of Delhi to where labour is cheaper... we have made this clear to the Labour Minister, who assured us that our apprehensions will be conveyed to the Delhi Cabinet and that the government will also examine the legality of our proposal,” Mr. Goyal said.
Mr. Goyal added that the private sector was now contemplating legal course against the government’s decision. “After our concerns are raised in the Cabinet, we will also meet Delhi Chief Minister next week and raise this issue,” Mr. Goyal added.
