Reported by The Blunt Times
SURAT : Gujarat’s diamond industry may be witnessing a revival in demand, but the workers who polish the gems say their wages remain stuck at rock-bottom levels. The Diamond Workers’...
In a letter dated September 24, the union demanded a comprehensive survey of wages paid to diamond workers across Gujarat and called for an increase in piece-rate payments in line with the rising cost of living.
The union said lakhs of artisans have helped Gujarat build a global reputation in diamond cutting and polishing and generate significant foreign exchange earnings. However, it alleged that a prolonged slowdown sharply reduced workers’ earnings while household expenses continued to rise.
The wages of these artisans, which had hit rock bottom, must be increased,” the union said in its representation to the GJEPC.
The DWUG also alleged that workers in diamond factories in rural Gujarat are sometimes paid below government-mandated minimum wages and are forced to process diamonds for very low piece rates.
