Karachi – In a bid to protect the rights of both employees and industrialists and to address the rising concerns of labor union misconduct, Faraz-ur-Rehman, the President of the Korangi Association of Trade and Industry (KATI), has called for decisive action against labor unions engaged in blackmail and illegal activities.
President Faraz-ur-Rehman voiced his concerns, stating that the Sindh Employees Social Security Institution (SESSI), Employees Old Age Benefits Institution (EOBI), and all relevant government departments must take immediate notice of the inappropriate conduct of certain elements in labor unions. He emphasized that stringent action should be taken against those labor unions that exploit the industry under the guise of workers’ rights.
He further expressed his dismay at certain elements within labor unions who appear to prioritize their personal interests over the welfare of workers. Such actions, according to Faraz-ur-Rehman, are detrimental to both industries and the economy.
“Industrialists respect labor laws, and KATI stands with employees when their rights are valid,” Faraz-ur-Rehman affirmed. He added that the Korangi industrial area has a history of treating employees fairly and would continue to do so. However, he raised concerns about labor leaders who resort to blackmail and misuse labor laws for their own gain, causing harm to industries.
The President of KATI highlighted instances where labor unions have threatened to shut down industries through improper means, forcing the employment of unskilled workers under duress. Strikes and sit-ins have further damaged industries, leading to a significant economic setback.
In response to these challenges, President Faraz-ur-Rehman called upon SESSI and EOBI, along with other employee welfare bodies, to identify and take appropriate measures against labor unions exploiting workers. He stressed the importance of discouraging such practices and adapting labor laws to current conditions.
Faraz-ur-Rehman warned that failure to adapt labor laws could result in the closure of industries by crisis-affected industrialists, causing severe damage to the economy. He appealed to the government to create a conducive environment for industrialists, modernize labor laws, and devise strategies to bolster the economy.
In closing, Faraz-ur-Rehman emphasized the need for collaboration between law enforcement agencies and employee welfare bodies to resolve the economic crisis, promote healthy competition, and protect the rights of both employees and industrialists.
