SHILLONG: The Department of Labour, Employment and Skill Development, Government of Meghalaya, launched the amended Meghalaya Identification, Registration, Safety and Security of Migrant Workers (MIRSS) Rules, 2020, at a state-level orientation programme on Wednesday.
Labour Minister Methodius Dkhar formally launched the amended rules, an e-payment gateway for fines, and the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for implementation at the event held at the State Guest House, Tara Ghar.
Minister Dkhar emphasized the need for coordinated efforts among police, district officials, employers, contractors, trade unions, civil society, and migrant workers for effective implementation.
He identified awareness, facilitation, inspection, and enforcement as key priorities, urging Deputy Commissioners and district officials to work closely with the Labour Department.
Dkhar stressed that complaints of harassment, discrimination, or unlawful acts against migrant workers should be promptly addressed, with closer police-labour department coordination.
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He also called for interstate cooperation on identification, verification, and welfare, and reminded employers and contractors of their responsibility to ensure worker safety and access to benefits.
Highlighting migrant workers’ contributions to sectors like construction, healthcare, hospitality, and manufacturing, Dkhar noted that proper registration is essential for support during emergencies, but cautioned against the process becoming a tool for harassment.
He insisted on respecting workers’ privacy and ensuring responsible data use.
The event was attended by senior officials, including L.S.N. Garod Dykes, Dr. B.D.R. Tiwari, Frederick Roy Kharkongor, and Labour Commissioner Banteilang J. Kharshandi, along with other stakeholders.
(4FrontMedia news)