New Delhi, Aug 11 (KNN) Agitated over the press statement of Labour Minister Gopal Rai for 46% exorbitant hike in wages in the national capital before 15th August, 2016, the micro, small and medium enterprises (MSME) have termed it as a ‘Black Day’ for the industry.

Calling it a move to gain political mileage, the Apex Chamber on behalf of the city MSMEs has given representation to Najeeb Jung, LG of Delhi, regarding the press statement of the Labour Minister.

The chamber said, “This increase would be disastrous for Delhi MSME industry at this recession period.”

They said the move would encourage migration of mass workers into Delhi state where as there is already not much infrastructure available in the state.

Delhi has already 30% more wages as compared to its neighbouring states and cannot bear further proposed hike, they highlighted.

The industry body fears that the MSME industry of Delhi would be forced to shift out of Delhi and shall therefore not be in good interest of workers as well if the proposed hike is mandated.  

The current minimum wage is Rs 9,568 for unskilled workers, Rs 10,582 for semi-skilled workers and Rs 11,622 for skilled workers.

On Friday, Rai had said “In an effort to improve the quality of life of labourers, the AAP government is ready to implement the revised wages.”

The minimum wage for Delhi’s working class will be increased by 30 to 40 per cent across all sectors in the Capital, Rai had said.

Addressing a press conference, Rai had said a 13-member advisory committee, which was constituted by the Labour Department to revise minimum wages in Delhi this April, will submit its report in the next few days. (KNN Bureau)