In a note sent on May 4 to the government, which is framing a national policy for domestic workers, the council asked it to enshrine the right to pay without gender discrimination as laid down in the Equal Remuneration Act of 1976.
Domestic workers were on a par with other workers and should be treated “no less favourably”, it said.
They should be recognised and registered with the state labour departments and have the right to establish their own organisations or become part of unions and associations.
The note asked the Centre to ensure normal work hours with “suitable” daily and weekly rest. The policy should also recognise entitlement to paid annual and sick leave, a social security cover that would carry maternity benefits and a “safe and healthy” work environment with enough food for live-in workers, it said.