ISLAMABAD – The National Industrial Relations Commission (NIRC) will celebrate Pakistan’s 79th Independence Day with a focus on its pivotal role in upholding social justice and economic equity. The NIRC’ Chairman Justice retired Shaukat Aziz Siddiqui will hoist the national flag tomorrow (Thursday) at principal seat of the Commission Islamabad. Commission members, staff, and a large legal fraternity gathering will attend the event.
The ceremony, steeped in patriotic fervor, is more than a traditional observance of the nation’s independence; it is a powerful reaffirmation of the NIRC’s foundational mission. The Industrial Relations Act of 2012 establishes the Commission’s task: safeguarding workers’ rights, fostering industrial harmony, and ensuring equitable relations between employers and employees. This mandate proves crucial for a nation founded on social justice and equality principles.
The ceremony is an expression of the profound connection between political and economic freedom as the dream of independence is incomplete without economic independence,” echoing Pakistan’s founders’ vision for a self-reliant and prosperous nation. The NIRC’s work, therefore, continues this national struggle, aiming to create a fair and balanced industrial climate where both labor and management can thrive through mutual respect and cooperation. It is pertinent to mention that under the aegis of Justice retired Siddiqui, the NIRC has intensified efforts to strengthen the country’s institutional arrangements for labor justice. These include enhancing dispute resolution mechanisms, accelerating industrial dispute adjudication, and enforcing the fundamental right to collective bargaining. These initiatives align with international best practices and the core principles of the International Labour Organization (ILO), which Pakistan has proudly ratified. By ensuring compliance with these standards, the Commission not only mitigates industrial unrest but also contributes significantly to economic productivity and stability, both of which are vital for national sovereignty. The flag-hoisting ceremony at the NIRC will serve as a poignant reminder that freedom’s defense extends beyond national borders into the nation’s workplaces. A strong and prosperous nation builds on a foundation of fair treatment, lawful practices, and industrial peace. As the green and white flag rises at the NIRC headquarters, it will symbolize both the sacrifices of those who secured Pakistan’s political freedom and the ongoing institutional efforts to secure its economic and social emancipation.
The NIRC, through its unwavering dedication, stands as a guardian of industrial democracy and a cornerstone of the nation’s progress.
