Professionalise domestic services

Over the years, several tech-enabled platforms have 'professionalised' many services by aggregating and upskilling cohorts of skilled professionals, such as electricians, plumbers and beauticians. In the process, formalising their work processes, standardising the products they use and fixing rates they can charge their clients for a specific job. Unfortunately, this welcome rush of professionalisation has not touched a large segment of workers: domestic service-providers and house helps. This continued absence of contractual employment, not to mention official oversight of their social and legal rights, and callous, even inhumane, behaviour of many employers has had unfortunate consequences, especially for women professionals. Earlier this month, a minor was rescued from Gurgaon after her employers (sic) reportedly assaulted her and held her captive. This, alas, is not one-off.

The incident has had one positive consequence. The Gurgaon administration is working on a framework for domestic personnel, outlining minimum wages, working conditions and hours, age restrictions and other requirements that employers must adhere to. This is the first such step in India.

For a country that aspires to wear the 'developed nation' tag on its sleeve, rule of law and adherence to human rights keeps falling by the wayside, especially within the four walls of one's home. A contract, akin to HR policies in the formal sector, can ensure a certain balance of power - and dignity - between employers and employees, and help set benchmarks for both sides. The Gurgaon charter, being created by departments of law, labour and health, is expected to be out soon. If designed - and implemented - properly, it can be a template for others to follow.