Context
Despite 50 years of the Bonded Labour System (Abolition) Act, 1976, bonded labour persists across India, especially in brick kilns.
What is Bonded Labour?
• System where a person is forced to work to repay a debt or advance.
• Characterised by coercion, low wages, restricted movement.
• Often traps families across generations.
Constitutional Provision
Article 23(1) prohibits:
• Traffic in human beings
• Begar
• Other similar forms of forced labour, including bonded labour.
Key Law
Bonded Labour System (Abolition) Act, 1976
• Abolishes bonded labour system.
• Cancels all existing debts of bonded labourers.
• Punishes those who force or benefit from bonded labour.
• Mandates identification, release and rehabilitation of victims.
