Supreme Court asks labour ministry to file affidavit (Img: Internet)
New Delhi: The Supreme Court has directed the Ministry of Labour and Employment to submit an affidavit outlining steps taken to address inter-state trafficking of bonded labourers, including children.
A bench comprising Justices Vikram Nath and Sandeep Mehta said the affidavit should also specify what further directions may be required from the court to effectively deal with the issue.
The court was hearing a petition seeking enforcement of fundamental rights of individuals trafficked and forced into bonded labour. The matter highlights concerns around exploitation, lack of protection, and gaps in rehabilitation mechanisms.
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Attorney General R. Venkataramani, assisting the court, informed the bench that several developments had taken place regarding the issue.
The bench noted that a written submission presented earlier contained details of actions taken by the ministry and the status of relevant schemes. However, it directed that a formal affidavit be filed by the secretary of the ministry within three weeks.
The court emphasised that the affidavit should clearly outline both existing measures and proposed steps, enabling it to consider further directions during the next hearing scheduled for May 19.
During the proceedings, senior advocate H S Phoolka pointed to gaps in providing immediate financial assistance to rescued individuals. He submitted that while thousands of children had been rescued across states, only a limited number had received financial support.
The issue of delayed or inadequate assistance has been a recurring concern in cases involving bonded labour, particularly for minors.
The court has previously directed authorities to coordinate across states and Union Territories to address inter-state trafficking more effectively. It had also called for simplifying procedures to ensure timely disbursal of financial aid to rescued labourers.
Additionally, the court had asked the Centre to involve the National Human Rights Commission in finalising procedures related to rehabilitation.
The case continues to underline systemic challenges in tackling bonded labour and ensuring protection of vulnerable populations, with the court seeking comprehensive accountability from authorities.
