Today(on 30th Aug), the NHRC informed the Supreme Court that it will draft a proposal for immediate financial assistance to rescued bonded laborers. The matter arose during a hearing on the fundamental rights of trafficked workers.
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NEW DELHI: The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has taken a step towards addressing the pressing issue of immediate financial assistance for rescued bonded laborers. Today(on 30th Aug), during a hearing in the Supreme Court, the NHRC committed to holding discussions with all relevant stakeholders to formulate a “concrete proposal” aimed at resolving this critical matter.
The Supreme Court bench, comprising Justices B R Gavai and K V Viswanathan, was deliberating on a petition that sought the enforcement of fundamental rights for individuals trafficked as bonded workers. During the proceedings, the question of providing immediate financial assistance to these rescued laborers was raised.
Concerns Over Lack of Financial Assistance
Senior advocate H S Phoolka, representing one of the petitioners, expressed deep concern over the inadequate financial assistance provided to the rescued laborers.
He highlighted a stark discrepancy, stating-
“Less than 10 percent of these laborers received financial assistance or compensation.”
Phoolka further pointed out that the petitioner organization had successfully rescued approximately 11,000 children, yet financial assistance was extended to only 719 of them.
This alarming situation underscores the urgent need for a structured approach to ensure that all rescued bonded laborers receive the support they deserve. The lack of financial assistance not only hinders their rehabilitation but also exacerbates their vulnerability.
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NHRC to Engage with Stakeholders
In response to these concerns, the counsel representing the NHRC assured the Supreme Court that she would engage in discussions with all stakeholders to address the issue.
“The NHRC counsel stated that she will engage in discussions with all stakeholders and develop a concrete proposal to address the issue of immediate financial assistance for rescued bonded laborers.”
-the bench noted.
The Supreme Court directed the NHRC to conduct these discussions and finalize the modalities for the proposal. The matter has been scheduled for a follow-up hearing in four weeks, allowing the commission ample time to prepare a robust plan that can be implemented effectively.
Background of the Case
The petition under consideration was first brought to the Supreme Court’s attention in July 2022. The apex court agreed to hear the case and subsequently sought responses from various entities, including the central government, the NHRC, and several states and union territories.
One of the petitioners in the case recounted his harrowing experience of being trafficked and forced into bonded labor. He, along with several other bonded workers, was rescued on February 28, 2019, from a brick kiln in Shahjahanpur district, Uttar Pradesh. These workers were trafficked from their native village in Bihar’s Gaya district by an unregistered contractor.
The petitioner revealed that they were compelled to work under deplorable conditions without receiving the minimum statutory wages. Their fundamental rights, particularly the rights to movement and employment, were severely curtailed during their time in bondage.
The Urgent Need for a Concrete Proposal
The NHRC’s commitment to formulating a concrete proposal is a crucial development in the ongoing efforts to combat bonded labor and trafficking in India. The proposal is expected to outline clear guidelines and mechanisms for the provision of immediate financial assistance to rescued laborers, ensuring their rehabilitation and reintegration into society.