Shillong, Sep 9 (PTI) Meghalaya Labour Minister Methodius Dkhar on Wednesday launched the amended rules for proper registration of migrant workers and said it was essential for the government to identify their workplaces and provide assistance during emergencies.
Speaking at a state-level launch-cum-orientation programme on the amended Meghalaya Identification, Registration, Safety and Security of Migrant Workers (MIRSS) Rules, 2020, Dkhar said registration should facilitate workers’ welfare and protection without creating unnecessary barriers.
“Registration is important because it enables the government to know where migrant workers are employed and to assist them during emergencies. However, it should not become a tool for harassment or create unnecessary difficulties for workers and employers,” Dkhar said.
The amended rules were launched at the State Guest House, Tara Ghar, along with an e-payment gateway for payment of fines and a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for implementation of the MIRSS Amendment Act and Rules.
Dkhar stressed the need for coordinated efforts among the police, district administration, employers, contractors, trade unions, civil society organisations and migrant workers for effective implementation of the new framework.
“The Labour Department has a central role in ensuring that the provisions of the Act and Rules are properly communicated and implemented across the state. Awareness, facilitation, inspection and enforcement will be our key areas of focus,” he said.
He called upon Deputy Commissioners and district-level officials to work closely with Labour Department officials to ensure effective implementation of the amended rules.
The minister said the amended framework also provides for closer coordination between police authorities and labour officials.
“Complaints relating to harassment, intimidation, discrimination, physical injury or other unlawful acts against migrant workers should be promptly registered, investigated and dealt with according to law,” he said.
Dkhar also stressed the need for coordination between Meghalaya and the states from which migrant workers originate, particularly in matters of identification, verification, emergency assistance and welfare.
He said employers, contractors, industries and business establishments must recognise their responsibility towards migrant workers and ensure their safety and access to benefits and protections available under government regulations.
“Migrant workers contribute significantly to Meghalaya’s economy and are engaged in construction, infrastructure, healthcare, hospitality, agriculture and manufacturing. Their safety and welfare must remain a priority,” Dkhar said.
He further emphasised that the registration process must respect the privacy and dignity of workers.
“Information collected through the registration process should be used only for legitimate public purposes and handled responsibly, while fully respecting the privacy and dignity of migrant workers,” he said. PTI JOP RG
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