On the occasion of Labour Day, a significant event titled “Shramdivas: Shramikon ke Samman aur Samadhan ki Disha” was organized to commemorate the contributions and address the challenges faced by the labor class. The event aimed to honor the dignity of labor and explore solutions to the issues confronting workers.
Event Details
The guest of honor for the event was Sh. Azad Ji, a renowned social worker and Seva Pramukh of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). Mr. Azad's presence underscored the commitment of the community towards the welfare of laborers.
During the event, Sh. Azad Ji shared poignant experiences from his childhood, highlighting the profound impact of his upbringing on his dedication to serving others. He recounted lessons learned from his grandmother and mother, who instilled in him a deep sense of compassion and empathy towards all living beings. Their selfless acts of rescuing and caring for animals left a lasting impression on him, teaching him that acts of kindness stem from a pure heart and are ultimately guided by a higher power.
Sh. Azad Ji also narrated instances where he and his team distributed food and provided essential services to the needy at railway stations, emphasizing the principle of never harboring disdain towards anyone. He reflected on the importance of every moment, citing the example of 700 consecutive days of service rendered to those in need.
Moreover, he shared a harrowing account of a man who fell victim to a brutal attack, where acid was thrown on his private parts by assailants. Through concerted efforts, Sh. Azad Ji ensured the victim received medical attention, including plastic surgery at Rohtak PGI, facilitating his recovery. Such experiences underscored the critical need for accessible medical facilities for the marginalized.
Overall, Sh. Azad Ji's shared experiences and the subsequent reflections during the event emphasized the importance of empathy, compassion, and collective efforts in addressing the challenges faced by the labor class and fostering a more equitable society. Avni, one of our students, added a creative dimension to the event by presenting poetry. Her poetic expression enriched the atmosphere, providing a unique perspective on the themes of labor, dignity, and social justice.
Furthermore, Prof. Dr. Sandeep Kulshrestha, Head of Department, Faculty of Law, SRMUH, illuminated the pivotal role of laborers as the backbone of the economy. He delved into the dynamics between laborers and capitalists, shedding light on the ongoing transition within these societal classes. Prof. Dr. Kulshrestha's insights provided a deeper understanding of the intricate relationships and power dynamics that shape the economic landscape, emphasizing the importance of equitable treatment and empowerment of laborers for sustainable development.
During the event, Mr. Prof. Dr. Rajeev Ranjan, Associate Professor, provided a concise yet comprehensive academic perspective on Labor Day. He traced its origins to the labor movement in the United States, emphasizing the role of historic protests against unfair working conditions. Dr. Ranjan highlighted the contributions of international organizations like the International Labour Organization (ILO) and pivotal events such as the Russian and Industrial Revolutions in shaping labor rights globally. He underscored the evolution of labor laws to protect workers from exploitation, while also addressing challenges faced by marginalized groups like women and migrant laborers. Dr. Ranjan's insights shed light on the significance of Labor Day and the ongoing need for advocacy and policy reforms to safeguard workers' rights and dignity.
Ms. Raka Medhavi, Assistant Professor at the Faculty of Law, SRMUH, addressed the challenges encountered by workers during the event, focusing particularly on issues faced by female workers. She highlighted disparities in wages and the prevalence of sexual harassment in the workplace, citing relevant data to support her arguments. Furthermore, Ms. Medhavi referenced cases at the Supreme Court level and articles within the constitution to underscore the legal framework surrounding workers' rights and protections. She emphasized the need for heightened awareness and advocacy efforts, calling for the central government to take proactive measures to address these challenges and ensure the well-being of all workers, especially women.
Vote of Thanks: The session concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks delivered by Ms. Kanika Aggarwal, Assistant Professor, Faculty of Law SRMUH.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the event celebrating Labor Day, titled "Shramdivas: Shramikon ke Samman aur Samadhan ki Disha," served as a platform for insightful discussions and reflections on the plight and contributions of workers. Distinguished speakers, including Sh. Azad Ji, Mr. Prof. Dr. Rajiv Ranjan, Prof. Dr. Sandeep Kulshrestha, and Ms. Raka Medhavi, shed light on various aspects of labor rights, historical significance, legal frameworks, and contemporary challenges. Sh. Azad Ji's experiences exemplified the spirit of selfless service and compassion towards laborers, while Mr. Prof. Dr. Rajeev Ranjan's academic analysis provided valuable insights into the historical, legal, and socio-economic dimensions of Labor Day. Prof. Dr. Sandeep Kulshrestha underscored the pivotal role of laborers in the economy and the need for equitable treatment, while Ms. Raka Medhavi highlighted the specific challenges faced by female workers and advocated for heightened awareness and legal protections. Throughout the event, poetry by Avni added a creative dimension, fostering empathy and reflection among attendees. The event concluded with a collective understanding of the ongoing struggles and the imperative for continued advocacy and policy reforms to safeguard the rights and dignity of all workers.
