Labour Day Boost: Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann Raises Minimum Wages By 15%

On Labour Day, the Punjab Assembly unanimously passed a resolution approving a 15 percent increase in minimum wages after 13 years, extending the benefit to all registered workers in both government and private sectors. Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann termed it a tribute to the working class.

The Punjab CM flagged education as key to improving their conditions and highlighted the AAP-led government's transformational work. He also targeted the Congress over its walkout from the special session, and announced a Shukrana Yatra following the passage of the Jaagat Jot Sri Guru Granth Sahib Satkar Amendment Act 2026.

CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stated, "The base rate of minimum wages for the working class was last revised in 2012, and although the Dearness Allowance (DA) has continued to rise since then, the base rate has not been increased. On this sacred occasion of Labour Day, the Punjab Assembly in this special session has moved to revise the minimum wages of workers."

Calling it a tribute to workers, he continued, "The increase in minimum wages is a real homage to the contribution of workers which is duly respected, acknowledged and appreciated. The entire House recognises their immense role in the socio economic progress of the state, and though this should have been done 13 years ago, no one paid heed due to insensitivity towards the working class."

Pointing to past neglect, he said, "Two previous regimes passed without revising wages for these hardworking and resilient people who are the backbone of society. On May Day, which symbolises the historic global struggle of labour, I pay rich tributes to those who sacrificed their lives in Chicago in 1886 to secure genuine service conditions."

CM Bhagwant Singh Mann added, "The working and labour class must come forward to usher in an era of development, peace and prosperity, and observe May Day not just historically but by taking a solemn pledge to safeguard their rights. The government has taken this historic initiative for their well being and will further strengthen their welfare through increased registration."

Targeting the opposition, he revealed, "The session began cordially but Congress leaders could not digest it and boycotted it on the pretext of no issue, reflecting their myopic mindset as big landlords, businessmen and aristocrats who are least concerned about labour. In contrast, the government has taken several steps to safeguard the rights of the working class."

Highlighting education reforms, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, "Children from weaker and underprivileged sections are excelling in government schools due to transformation in education, with 359 students clearing JEE. Of those sharing their experiences, 9 to 10 out of 15 were children of labourers, and when they secure good placements, the destiny of their families will change."

He emphasised, "Education is key to uplifting these families, which is why the government has prioritised this sector. I pay tribute to labour unions fighting for workers' rights and salute their zeal, and the government will continue taking every step to ensure their welfare so they keep contributing to the state and the nation."

CM Bhagwant Singh Mann to embark on Shukrana Yatra thanking Guru Sahib for strength to enact Jaagat Jot Sri Guru Granth Sahib Satkar Amendment Act 2026

Referring to the legislation, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, "We are fortunate that we were entrusted with the responsibility to unanimously pass the Jaagat Jot Sri Guru Granth Sahib Satkar Amendment Act 2026, which stipulates harsher punishment for 'beadbi' (sacrilege) and will put an end to such incidents. The 'beadbi' of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji was a deep rooted conspiracy to disturb peace, amity, brotherhood and communal harmony."

Underlining strict action, he asserted, "The Act ensures that anyone found guilty of this unpardonable offence will not be spared and exemplary punishment will act as a deterrent. Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji is like a father to every Sikh and it is our duty to ensure its sanctity, and people across the globe are expressing happiness and gratitude for this historic step."

Announcing the yatra, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, "To express gratitude to the Almighty, I will embark on a Shukrana Yatra from Sri Anandpur Sahib on May 6 and until May 9 will pay obeisance at Takht Sri Keshgarh Sahib, Sri Akal Takht Sahib, Damdama Sahib, Mastuana Sahib, Gurdwara Dukh Niwaran Sahib and Sri Fatehgarh Sahib, with the sole motive of thanking the Almighty for giving the strength and courage to pass this important Act."