By Times Now Digital

Copyright timesnownews

The Karnataka government is planning to introduce a new law aimed at protecting domestic workers and extending social security and welfare benefits across the state. The Domestic Workers (Social Security and Welfare) Bill seeks to guarantee minimum wages, formal protections, and other welfare measures for household staff in urban areas. Under the proposed legislation, all domestic workers—including maids, cooks, drivers, and nannies—will be required to register alongside their employers and service providers. The law intends to establish a rights-based framework, supported by contributions from employers and, in some cases, the workers themselves, as per a report by Moneycontrol. To oversee the scheme, the government plans to set up the Karnataka State Domestic Workers Social Security and Welfare Board. This body will be responsible for implementing the law, designing welfare programmes, and addressing grievances. The Board will follow a tripartite structure, including representatives from the government, domestic workers and their unions, employers, placement agencies, digital platforms, and resident welfare associations. A central feature of the Bill is the creation of a Social Security and Welfare Fund. Employers, placement agencies, or service platforms will be mandated to contribute up to 5 per cent of workers’ wages to this fund, with contributions made digitally. Officials are also considering a tripartite funding model, where the government, employers, and domestic workers each share responsibility, though final contribution ratios are still being decided. If passed, the legislation could significantly formalise Karnataka’s domestic workforce, offering legal safeguards and financial security that advocates have long demanded. Get Latest News Live on Times Now along with Breaking News and Top Headlines from Bengaluru and around the world.