In a disturbing reminder that bonded labour still persists in modern India, a man from Uttarakhand was successfully rescued from exploitative working conditions in Punjab, thanks to the coordinated efforts of activists, labour rights NGOs, and local authorities.
Trapped in Forced Labour
The man, reportedly in his early 30s, had migrated from a rural area in Uttarakhand seeking work. He was promised fair wages and accommodation at a brick kiln in Punjab. However, after arriving, he was forced into bonded labour, unable to leave the premises, deprived of wages, and subjected to harsh working conditions.
He was allegedly:
Made to work 14–16 hours daily
Paid meagre or no wages
Denied access to medical care and contact with family
Confined with other workers under close watch
The Rescue Operation
The rescue was carried out after a relative contacted a human rights group, which worked with local labour department officials and law enforcement in Punjab. With evidence of coercion and confinement, a team intervened and secured the man’s release, along with others facing similar abuse.
The rescued workers were:
Provided immediate medical care
Given temporary shelter
Issued release certificates under the Bonded Labour System (Abolition) Act, 1976
Offered rehabilitation support
Modern Slavery Still a Challenge
Despite laws prohibiting bonded labour, tens of thousands remain trapped in exploitative conditions, especially in:
Brick kilns
Construction sites
Agriculture
Small-scale industries
Migrant workers from poorer states like Bihar, Jharkhand, and Uttarakhand are especially vulnerable due to:
Illiteracy
Lack of documentation
Unregulated labour networks
Debt traps or advance payment schemes
Call for Stronger Action
Activists have urged the government to:
Strengthen inter-state coordination on migrant labour issues
Increase surprise inspections at worksites
Ensure faster rehabilitation and compensation
Launch awareness campaigns in vulnerable regions
This incident adds to growing pressure on state governments and the Centre to enforce labour rights more proactively.
FAQs
Q: What is bonded labour?
A: It’s a form of modern slavery where a person is forced to work to repay a debt or under threat, often with no pay and no freedom to leave.
Q: How are workers rescued?
A: Through legal intervention, local authorities, NGOs, and whistleblower reports, followed by issuing release certificates.
Q: Are there laws against bonded labour in India?
A: Yes, under the Bonded Labour System (Abolition) Act, 1976, it is illegal, but enforcement remains weak in many areas.
Q: What happens after a rescue?
A: Victims are offered rehabilitation, medical care, legal aid, and sometimes compensation, though the process is often slow.
published on 28th june
Publisher : SMITA
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