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The Prime Minister of Pakistan Syed Yousaf Raza Gillani, in his first speech to the members of the new national assembly, his first ever policy statement to the nation, announced withdrawal of ban on students unions and trade unions amid thunderous applause of the house. I cannot say if this announcement was made for a cheap publicity, or with some genuine desire and objective in mind, as the fact on the ground is that the unions, particularly the trade unions are already active and working with full force.
There is a grave need for all of us, particularly for the big political parties and the parties in power to dispassionately analyse the roles so far have been played by the unions, specially the trade unions. There is a need to see, what contribution they have made for the betterment of the society as a whole. I am of the view that, if proper study is made, then it will be established beyond doubt that, the undisciplined, chaotic, anarchic, high-handed activities of the trade unions are largely (but behind the scene) responsible for failure of democracy and downfall of democratic forces in this country. So, it is imperative upon present government to regulate and bring the activities and rights of the trade unions under some checks and balances to ensure its continuity and smooth sailing of the ruling parties for the prescribed time of five years. Political parties, for their own interests, should not encourage the trade unionists to do whatever the like to do in the garb of democratic rights.
Ours is a country which is very low on education and understanding. Resultantly our unionized people are also not very educated. But they do not hesitate to show their prowess in all fields of the affairs. They do not hesitate to vitiate the efficacy and effectiveness of various affairs with their limited knowledge and exposures. This ultimately effects the economy, and healthy growth of all norms, of the country. This present popularly elected government is hoped to take notice of this, and is also requested to take corrective measures in this matter for the greater benefit of the nation. They are also hoped to keep in mind that, protecting interest of a limited part of a certain class, for the sake of a few votes, at the cost of discipline and norms is not worth anything.
At the end, I shall say that the Government also needs to make laws to regulate the employers' and employees' relationship, as majority of Pakistanis now earn breads through jobs. The job holders are totally unprotected here. They are at the whims of the management on the one hand, and on the other hand are at the mercy of the unionized staff.
I hope, some kind-hearted ones from the law makers will take notice of my words and do some law making for the protection of rights of employees.
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