The government has introduced an amendment to parliament aimed at strengthening Women’s Development Committees (WDCs) by clarifying their roles and providing them with official wages and Ramadan benefits.
The first reading of the bill is scheduled for tomorrow’s parliamentary session, where it will be presented by Ahmed Zameer, MP for Central Daira. The bill proposes amendments to the Decentralization Act, 2016, ensuring that WDCs receive proper recognition, resources, and financial support to carry out their duties effectively.
Key amendments to the bill include:
- Defining Roles & Responsibilities: The bill seeks to provide greater clarity on the responsibilities of WDCs, improving their overall functioning.
- Administrative & Financial Support: It mandates local government authorities (LGAs) and councils to provide WDCs with necessary resources, training, and administrative assistance.
- Funding Regulations: The bill outlines procedures for the proper allocation and use of funds meant for WDC activities, addressing challenges in fund disbursement.
Proposed amendments to wages and allowances include:
- The amendment proposes that WDC members receive a reasonable wage, as determined by the National Pay Commission on the recommendation of the LGA.
- It introduces a Ramadan allowance of MVR 3,000 per member annually, to be paid before the start of the holy month.
Currently, Section 56-6 of the Decentralization Act states that the Finance Ministry should determine WDC wages based on LGA recommendations. However, there is no mention of a Ramadan allowance in the existing law.
If approved, this amendment will ensure that WDC members who do not receive Ramadan benefits under any other law will be eligible for the MVR 3,000 allowance, strengthening their financial security and recognising their contributions to community development.
The bill is expected to be debated in parliament before a final decision is made.
