Exploitation of workers will not be tolerated, says Punjab Labour MinisterStrict action promised against brick kiln owners failing to pay full wages

By Dr. Ansab Ali
Lahore, Pakistan
LAHORE: Punjab Provincial Minister for Labour and Human Resource Muhammad Minshaullah Butt has vowed that the exploitation of workers will not be tolerated under any circumstances, announcing strict legal action against brick kiln owners who fail to pay full wages to their employees.
The minister made the remarks during a meeting with leaders of brick kiln workers, which was also attended by Labour Parliamentary Secretary Nawab Sahibzada Muhammad Ghazain Abbasi, members of the Muslim League Labour Wing, school teachers from areas near brick kilns, and children.
Speaking at the gathering, Minshaullah Butt said Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz is committed to the welfare of workers and emphasized the launch of a special campaign to ensure the payment of minimum wages to brick kiln workers. He also announced that new labour laws are being drafted to strengthen protection for workers’ rights.
The minister underlined the government’s zero-tolerance stance on exploitation, saying that child labour at brick kilns will be completely eliminated, and children will be provided with proper education and vocational training opportunities.
He further urged brick kiln owners to play an active role in controlling smog and announced the formation of district-level committees to address workers’ issues in a timely and effective manner.
Concluding the event, the Labour Minister cut a Christmas cake alongside labour leaders, teachers, children, and other participants, highlighting the government’s commitment to both workers’ welfare and community engagement.