Kathmandu: The Joint Trade Union Coordination Center (JTUCC) has demanded that the minimum wage for workers be fixed at Rs 30,443 per month. At a press conference organized here today, JTUCC president Jagat Bahadur Simkhada emphasized the need for this adjustment in light of the current market prices and living standards. He noted that the monthly expenditure for a four-member family ranges between Rs 30,000 and Rs 35,000, thereby justifying the proposed wage based on scientific, comparative, and practical grounds.
According to National News Agency Nepal, Simkhada also urged the government, employers, and stakeholders to conduct an immediate review of the minimum wage. He stressed the importance of fully implementing the Contribution-Based Social Security Act and amending labor laws. The JTUCC warned that failure to address these demands would result in a joint protest starting from July 10.
The JTUCC, which serves as a coordinating mechanism for 10 recognized National Trade Unions, is committed to advocating for Nepali workers. The organization highlighted the government’s constitutional obligation to review the minimum wage every two years, pointing out that the last adjustment was made when a monthly wage of Rs 17,300 was set in 2080 BS.
Additionally, the JTUCC has called for the enforcement of the Supreme Court’s decision on workers’ fundamental rights, including organizing, collective bargaining, fair labor practices, and the implementation of a contribution-based social security scheme. The Center also urged the government to rectify nominations to the Board of Directors of the Social Security Fund, which it claims contradict the spirit of tripartite representation.