New Delhi, June 20: The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has taken suo moto cognisance of a media report alleging severe violations of labour laws at Amazon’s warehouse in Manesar, Haryana, as reported by Bar and Bench.
According to the report, a 24-year-old worker at the warehouse was asked to pledge that they would not take toilet or water breaks until they finished unloading packages from six 24-foot trucks after their team’s 30-minute tea break ended.
The NHRC noted that the contents of the news report, if true, raise serious human rights issues, potentially violating the law and guidelines issued by the Ministry of Labour and Employment. In response, the Commission issued a notice to the Secretary of the Union Ministry of Labour and Employment, requesting a detailed report on the matter within one week.
In a press release, the Commission expressed concern over these allegations, especially given the government’s pro-worker laws and policies.
A female employee reportedly stated that no restroom facilities are available at the working sites. Labour associations in India have accused five warehouses in and around Manesar of violating regulations outlined in the Factories Act, 1948.
Further, according to the report, one worker, who works ten hours a day for five days a week and earns ₹10,088 per month, stated that even without breaks, including the 30-minute lunch and tea breaks, it is impossible to unload more than four trucks per day. A female worker also claimed that she stands for nine hours daily and is required to evaluate 60 small products or 40 medium-sized products per hour during her shift.
Amazon has faced similar accusations internationally, highlighting ongoing concerns regarding the treatment of warehouse workers. (Bar and Bench)