Sindh Minister for Labour, Human Resources and Social Security Saeed Ghani on Sunday disclosed that corruption exceeding a whopping Rs20 billion had taken place within his department, claiming that he was facing pressure over the matter but remained committed to holding those responsible accountable.
Addressing the All Pakistan Women Workers Conference organised by the Home-Based Women Workers Federation at the Arts Council of Pakistan Karachi, Ghani said officials allegedly involved in corruption had been transferred, but court decisions had subsequently supported some of those transferred.
“I cannot reinstate thieves to their former positions. We want those responsible to be punished, despite the pressure being exerted on us,” he said.
The minister added that he would not compromise his principles to retain office. “I will not remain a minister forever. I can give up ministerial
positions ten times
over, but I cannot sacrifice my integrity to save a ministry,” he added.
Highlighting the provincial government’s labour policies, Ghani said Sindh was the first province to formally recognise home-based workers. He acknowledged, however, that implementation of labour laws remained a challenge due to limited resources.
Referring to the minimum wage law, he said the government alone could not ensure compliance at every workplace and urged workers to unite against exploitation.
“If workers collectively refuse to work below the legally prescribed wage, employers will have no choice but to comply,” he said.
Ghani also revealed that during his tenure as adviser on labour in 2016, he had been offered a monthly bribe of Rs50 million, which he rejected.
The minister reiterated the provincial government’s commitment to workers’ welfare, women’s empowerment and social protection programmes. He said around 500,000 to 600,000 workers had so far been registered under social security schemes, although the actual number should be much higher.
He added that efforts were underway to expand social security coverage and ensure better
education and healthcare facilities for workers
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