It's been 35 years , (1990 to 2025), since we assembled at Bhim, in Rajsamand District to launch the MKSS. The early years were tumultuous but the path to equality and justice was clear, and the impediments many.
The minimum wages battles led to the RTI and MGNREGA and later to the Rights based laws. The years have passed packed with the million issues of denial of basic rights to survive, yet the struggle continues, despite usympathetic structures and governments.
Work and workers now operate in a different paradigm. The laws have changed and work is contract work, without guarantees. The Gig Workers law, a law for old age pension and an urban employment scheme amongst otgers have seen the light of day.
The few windows of opportunities we see, have been relentlessly pursued.
We celebrate today's Mazdoor Mela in Bhim, in the spirit of a celebration of ourselves and our struggles - the right to survive with dignity and joy.
Aruna, Nikhil and Shankar and the MKSS.
https://www.freedominfo.org/2004/06/the-right-to-know-is-the-right-to-live-3/