By Hareem Mubashar
The violation of labour rights has become a cruel reality for domestic and manual workers in Pakistan. Unfortunately, many labourers in our country are currently deprived of their basic rights. Domestic workers suffer from excessive working hours, delayed wages and physical abuse by their employers, however, most cases go unreported due to fear and lack of support. Similarly, manual labourers endure hazardous working conditions with no proper safety measures, fair compensation, low wages, lack of job security and insufficient access to health care and social protections. Many labourers in Pakistan die every day, and their families are not offered any compensation or financial support. It has been reported on ScienceDirect that 2.7 million workers get injured every year in Pakistan.
Islam strictly prohibits the exploitation of workers. The Prophet Muhammed (PBUH) emphasised paying workers “before their sweat dries”, meaning they should be paid fairly and on time while being treated with dignity.
The Quran also emphasized fairness and justice to all, particularly labour and employment workers, stating, “And do not withhold from the people the things that are due, and do not commit abuse on the Earth, spreading corruption”. (Surah Hud 11:85)
Islam commands a just treatment of workers, encouraging kindness and mutual respect. Many Prophets were labour workers such as the Prophet(PBUH), who helped with housework, milked goats, brought firewood, helped in cooking, tailored clothes and helped dig the trench during the Battle of the Trench. Other Prophets such as Ibrahim (PBUH), Moosa (PBUH), Shoaib (PBUH) and Muhammed (PBUH) were all shepherds. Hazrat Nuh (PBUH) and Zakariya (PBUH) were skilled craftsmen. And Dawud (PBUH) made coats of armour.
However, labour rights in Pakistan continue to be ignored. To improve their situation, I believe the government must enforce labour laws, ensure fair wages, and penalise employers who exploit workers. Additionally, awareness campaigns should educate both employers and workers about Islamic principles of justice and equality. Non-governmental organisations (NGOs) should also be encouraged to advocate for the rights of these labourers. Furthermore, ethical employment practices should be promoted, and industries must be held accountable for the treatment of their workers. Schools and educational institutions should promote the dignity of labour to instill respect for all professions in young minds. It is also important for us as a society to recognise and value the efforts of these workers.
It is strongly urged that authorities take immediate action and uphold the dignity of labour in line with Islamic teachings. Providing legal protection, improving working conditions and ensuring timely and fair wages to benefit the society.