Therie calls for insurance, ex-gratia for electrocuted workers

DIMAPUR — Former Nagaland Pradesh Congress Committee president and former Minister of Finance, Nagaland, K Therie, said on Saturday that Mhalerü Yhobu and Niesühü Chüzho, who were electrocuted on July 3, are entitled to life insurance and appropriate ex-gratia as per national law.

Yhobu and Chüzho, two construction workers, were electrocuted when the iron rod they were working with accidentally touched an electric wire. The incident occurred during construction work at a private residence in the BSF Camp, Kohima.

In a press statement, Therie expressed sorrow over the loss of two young men who believed in the dignity of labour rather than resorting to extortion or dependency. Therie added that they deserve the appreciation of the state government.

Reminding that many politicians have spoken about the dignity of labour, he said that the two toiling at the construction site to earn a living exemplify the true dignity of labour. He hoped that the state government would honour them appropriately.

He mentioned that, to ensure workers’ rights to minimum wages and welfare, the central government has amalgamated four laws into the Wages Code.

“I am not aware whether we have adopted appropriate laws for the purpose,” he said, adding that if not, the lawmakers of the state government must apply their minds as to whether the national laws are applicable, in concurrence with Article 371(A).

He further maintained that if not, lawmakers should make laws to ensure workers’ rights and benefits as deemed fit and proper.