WAGES AND INCOMES POLICY - WHAT IT MEANS TO THE WORKING CLASS

Abstract

The working class demands a correct policy on the basis of a time-bound programme for need-based wage (a) full neutralisation of rise in the cost of living and (b) equal pay for equal work. It demands minimum wage as the minimum to be attained and calls for a policy of raising living standards above this minimum. It demands that the agricultural and other toilers should be included under this programme. The peasant should be ensured a direct income by ensuring fair price for his produce, cheap input and credit.

At the same time, it demands that the aim of a proper wages and incomes policy should be to reduce the disparity in the incomes of the exploiters and exploited classes. The raising of the standard of living of the workers and others is one part of the policy. The other is to take away the huge incomes from the exploiting class which can be best done by removing their ownership of the means of production.