The National People’s Youth Front (NPYF), Dimapur district has expressed deep concern over the continuing vulnerability of domestic workers in Nagaland and urges the State Government and legislators to enact a comprehensive law for their protection and welfare.
The NPYF said thousands of young men and women from rural and economically disadvantaged regions of Nagaland, particularly Eastern Nagaland, migrate to urban centres every year in search of employment and for many, domestic work becomes the only available means of livelihood.
While such employment provides economic opportunities, it also exposes workers to various forms of exploitation due to the absence of a dedicated legal framework, it added.
Stating that domestic workers perform essential services that support households and contribute significantly to society, the Front said incidents of physical abuse, sexual harassment, non- payment of wages, excessive working hours, denial of educational opportunities for minor workers, and restrictions on personal freedom continue to be reported from different quarters, which highlight the urgent need for stronger legal safeguards.
“Unlike workers in the formal sector, domestic workers are employed within private households where monitoring and oversight are limited. As a result, many workers suffer in silence, lacking access to effective grievance redressal mechanisms and legal remedies,” the Front stated adding, “Fear of retaliation, loss of employment, and lack of awareness about their rights often prevent victims from seeking help.”
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NPYF Dimapur called upon the Government to enact a Domestic Workers Protection and Welfare Act to ensure dignity, safety, and justice for this vulnerable workforce stating that such legislation should include mandatory registration of domestic workers and employers, written employment contracts, regulation of working conditions, protection from all forms of abuse, and the establishment of dedicated complaint and grievance redressal mechanisms.
It said the proposed legislation should also provide for emergency helplines, shelter homes, legal aid, counselling, rehabilitation support for victims, and strict penalties against employers found guilty of exploitation or abuse.
It stressed that protecting domestic workers is not merely a welfare measure but a commitment to social justice, human dignity, and responsible governance. A dedicated law would create a safer and more accountable environment for both workers and employers while ensuring that the rights of vulnerable citizens are respected and protected, it added.
NPYF Dimapur called upon all legislators, policymakers, civil society organisations, and concerned citizens to support the introduction of a comprehensive legal framework for domestic workers in Nagaland. Inclusive development cannot be achieved if those who contribute significantly to households and society remain invisible and unprotected.
