Garment Mahila Karmikara Munnade is a community based women’s organization that educates women about their rights. It started in 2002 as a pre-union concept to work with women on issues of domestic violence and challenging patriarchy in their daily lives. It was officially founded in 2004 and registered in 2011. 90% of garment workers in Bangalore are women, of which a vast majority are the single bread-winners for their families, either because their husband cannot find work or they have been separated for various reasons.
Prior to the formation of Karmikara Munnade, workers submitted a very limited number of cases to the Labour Commissioner. As workers became more aware of their rights, the number of cases increased significantly. Karmikara Munnade also handles family cases and refers them to the Alternative Law Forum.
Activities of Karmikara Munnade
- Works on sanitation and water accessibility at community level.
- Worked with Vimochana on a Safe City Campaign and advocated for street lights and other safety measures.
- Conducted voter registration drives.
- Supports women in domestic violence cases and counseling.
- Maintains a library of books for children.
- Works to ensure public funds are spent for public benefit at municipal level.
- Works with government to conduct Kannada language classes for migrant workers.