New Delhi: A new report by Oxfam India has highlighted discrimination faced by women, Muslims, Dalits, and tribal communities in India’s job market, stating that unequal wages persist even among people with similar qualifications and experience.
The report, titled “Discrimination Report 2022,” said women continue to earn less than men because of “societal and employers’ prejudices.” Researchers examined government data related to jobs, wages, health, and access to agricultural credit between 2004 and 2020 to study patterns of inequality and discrimination.
According to the findings, men earn an average of Rs 4,000 more per month than women. The report also stated that non-Muslims earn nearly Rs 7,000 more than Muslims every month. People belonging to Dalit and tribal communities reportedly earn around Rs 5,000 less compared to others.
Oxfam India CEO Amitabh Behar said discrimination in the labour market occurs when people with “identical capabilities are treated differently because of their identity or social backgrounds.”
“The inequality for women and other social categories is not just due to poor access to education or work experience but because of discrimination,” he said.
The report pointed out that economic inequality is closely linked to social identity and background. It added that access to employment opportunities, fair wages, and financial resources remains uneven across different sections of society.
Researchers used statistical models to quantify discrimination and identify wage gaps among social groups. The findings have renewed debate around equal opportunity, social justice, and workplace inclusion in India’s labour market.
