Delhi Mandates Licences for Domestic Worker Agencies Within 15 Days

The Delhi government has ordered all private placement agencies supplying domestic workers to register and obtain a licence within 15 days, according to officials citing a public notice from the labour department. The directive aims to strengthen safeguards against exploitation.

Registration and Compliance Requirements

• Portal Registration: Agencies must register on the e-District portal.
• Police Verification: Applications must include police verification for both domestic workers and employers.
• Penalties: Non-compliance with the September 25, 2014, executive order can lead to a Rs 50,000 penalty, licence cancellation, and prosecution.
• Salary Payments: Wages for domestic workers must be transferred through bank accounts.

Guidelines for Employers

Employers hiring domestic help have been advised to use registered agencies only. They should verify the agency's credentials and ensure police verification of workers before finalising employment.

Regulatory Framework

The regulatory steps follow directions from the Delhi High Court to prevent exploitation. The framework empowers bodies such as the Child Welfare Committee and the Delhi Commission for Women to adjudicate matters concerning women and children in domestic work. Citizens can verify the original announcement through official Delhi government portals and labour department notices.