Bonded Labor In India: Legal Framework, Constitutional Protections, And Contemporary Enforcement Challenges

Written by: S. Karthik, B.A.LL.B (3^rd Year ), Dhana Lakshmi Srinivasan University

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G. Madhavan ,B.A.LL.B (3^rd Year ), Dhana Lakshmi Srinivasan University

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         M.V. Prasannan , B.A.LL.B (3^rd Year ), Dhana Lakshmi Srinivasan University

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T. Sherin Nova, B.A.LL.B (3^rd Year ), Dhana Lakshmi Srinivasan University

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E. Jayaveera Pandiyan ,B.A.LL.B (3^rd Year ), Dhana Lakshmi Srinivasan University

Published on: 4^th  December 2025

Abstract

Bonded labour remains a persistent human rights violation in India despite its abolition under the Bonded Labour System (Abolition) Act, 1976. Rooted in poverty, exploitation, and weak enforcement, it affects vulnerable communities across informal sectors. This paper examines constitutional safeguards, international obligations, legal remedies, landmark judgments, and recent developments, highlighting urgent needs for stricter enforcement, rehabilitation, and systemic reform.

Keywords: bonded labour, forced labour, debt bondage, human rights, labour law, rehabilitation, constitutional rights, Supreme Court of India, modern slavery, international conventions

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Volume 2 | Issue 2