Chairman Singh Kha Warns of Strong Movement Against Attacks on Workers’ Rights

Jagat Bahadur Singh Kha, Chairman of the All Nepal Trade Union Federation, has issued a warning to launch a strong movement against ongoing attacks on workers’ rights. He demanded the government immediately repeal anti-worker clauses 145, 109, 39, and 58 of the Labor Act. Highlighting the hardships workers face due to rising inflation and increases in petroleum prices, he also called for a wage hike along with guaranteed quality education and healthcare.

Speaking at an event commemorating the 137th International Workers’ Day, Singh Kha recalled the contributions of the working class to Nepal’s democratic movement. He stated, “The same class that spilled blood to establish the federal democratic republic is now seeing its rights bulldozed by right-wing forces donning the mask of populism.”

Singh Kha emphasized that the state itself must become the primary employer for workers going abroad for foreign employment, and the government must take full responsibility for their protection. Expressing concern over attempts to turn workers into modern-day slaves under the names of digital economy and ‘gig economy,’ he noted that riders, online vendors, and outsourced workers are being deliberately excluded from the scope of the Labor Act, effectively rendering them without rightful representation or protection.

The chairman reiterated the demand for the government to repeal anti-worker provisions of the Labor Act and warned that forthcoming movements will no longer be confined to industries and factories but will spread to streets, parliamentary houses, and digital platforms as well.