Once a fiery advocate for a Rs. 2000 daily wage for estate workers while in opposition, MP Kitnan Selvaraj now says Rs. 1700 is enough, citing falling living costs. But is this a fair shift or political convenience?
In a statement that surprised many, Jathika Jana Balawegaya MP Kitnan Selvaraj, also known as MP Malima, said that although he once demanded a minimum daily wage of Rs. 2000 for estate workers, the current situation warrants only Rs. 1700.
Speaking on the Profile program on Sirasa TV, the MP explained that his earlier calls for a higher wage came during a time when the cost of living was skyrocketing and essential goods were unaffordable. He had led the charge in Parliament and public forums, emphasizing that the daily wage for plantation workers must be increased to Rs. 2000 to match the rising cost of survival for a family of four.
He justified the shift in position by citing recent changes in the economic landscape. “The prices of goods have decreased. Certain facilities and support systems are now available to the people,” he said, arguing that the new economic conditions have altered the salary equation.
According to Selvaraj, the Central Bank’s cost-of-living assessments previously supported the Rs. 2000 demand, but the updated economic metrics now suggest that Rs. 1700 would be a more fitting figure for estate worker wages.
However, the remark has stirred debate. While some view it as a pragmatic response to changing economic indicators, others accuse the MP of backtracking on his promises and weakening the fight for fair compensation in one of Sri Lanka’s most labor-intensive sectors.
The discussion surrounding fair wages for estate workers continues to evolve, and MP Selvaraj’s recent comments have added new fuel to the national conversation.
