Delhi CM Atishi Boosts Minimum Wages, Challenges BJP States

New Minimum Wage Rates in Delhi

• Unskilled workers: Increased from ₹17,494 to ₹18,066
• Semi-skilled workers: Raised from ₹19,279 to ₹19,929
• Skilled workers: Elevated from ₹21,215 to ₹21,917
• New rates effective from October 1, 2024
• Aim to provide relief from inflation ahead of the festive season
• Delhi government claims to offer the highest minimum wages in India
• Wages to be revised every two years, similar to Dearness Allowance for government employees

Comparison with BJP-ruled States

• CM Atishi presented data comparing Delhi's minimum wages with BJP-governed states:
  • Delhi: ₹18,066 for unskilled workers
  • Rajasthan: ₹8,063
  • Madhya Pradesh: ₹10,000
  • Uttar Pradesh: ₹8,300
  • Haryana: ₹10,000
  • Chhattisgarh: ₹10,900
• Atishi criticized BJP-ruled states for having minimum wages "half of what it is in Delhi"
• Emphasized AAP government's commitment to improving workers' living standards

Historical Context and Political Implications

• Atishi credited former CM Arvind Kejriwal for implementing highest minimum wages in the country
• Recounted struggles since 2016-2017 to increase minimum wages, facing opposition from BJP
• AAP government obtained court order to increase minimum wages despite BJP's opposition
• Atishi assumed CM role on September 22, following Kejriwal's resignation on September 17
• Symbolically placed empty chair beside her, dedicating it to Kejriwal
• Arvind Kejriwal, recently released from Tihar jail, stated he would return to office only with a renewed mandate in upcoming 2025 assembly elections

Reactions and Criticisms

• Atishi highlighted AAP government's initiatives for Delhi residents:
  • 24-hour electricity
  • Cheapest electricity in the country
  • Excellent government schools
  • Free tests and medicines in Mohalla Clinics
  • World-class hospitals with free treatment
  • Free pilgrimages for the elderly
  • Free bus travel for women

BJP's response:

• • Delhi BJP General Secretary Yogendra Chandolia called the announcement a "sham" and "election gimmick"
  • Accused Delhi government and MCD of not ensuring minimum wages for thousands of contract workers
  • Alleged corruption due to collusion between contractors and the government
• BJP challenged CM to ensure all contractual employees receive 30 days' payment at or above the minimum wages of skilled workers