Haryana Human Rights Commission Responds to Case of Minor Forced into Bonded Labour

The Haryana Human Rights Commission has intervened in a case involving a 15-year-old boy subjected to bonded labour. The commission demands the identification and arrest of those responsible for this violation of human dignity.

The Haryana Human Rights Commission has initiated an investigation into a case involving a 15-year-old boy subjected to bonded labour in Jind and Nuh districts. Officials reported that the commission has demanded the identification and arrest of those responsible. The boy, from Kishanganj district in Bihar, was deceived with a false job promise by an employer in Jind.

According to reports, the child was separated from his group at Bahadurgarh Railway Station. There, he encountered an unknown individual who offered him work at a buffalo dairy with a promised salary of Rs 10,000 per month. However, instead of legitimate employment, the minor endured two months of forced labour and physical abuse.

Legal Violations and Human Rights Concerns

The situation worsened when the boy sustained a severe injury while cutting fodder. The employer then abandoned him at an isolated location without any help. Despite his injuries, he managed to reach Nuh, where a teacher found him and provided medical assistance at a local health centre before notifying the police.

The Full Commission, led by Chairperson Justice Lalit Batra and Members Kuldip Jain and Deep Bhatia, expressed deep concern over this incident. They highlighted the physical harm and violation of human dignity involved, as well as the failure of protective mechanisms meant to safeguard children from such exploitation.

International and Domestic Law Breaches

Justice Lalit Batra noted that this treatment of a minor violates international legal obligations, particularly Article 32 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child. This article mandates protection against economic exploitation and hazardous work for children. The act also breaches domestic laws like the Bonded Labour System Abolition Act, 1976.

The commission observed that if these allegations are proven true, they represent a significant violation of fundamental rights under Articles 21 and 23 of the Indian Constitution. These articles ensure the right to live with dignity and prohibit human trafficking and forced labour.

Investigation and Accountability Measures

The commission stressed that this case requires urgent investigation due to the gravity of allegations and the victim's vulnerable condition. They called for accountability for those responsible and appropriate medical, psychological, and rehabilitation support for the victim.

Dr Puneet Arora, Protocol, Information & Public Relations Officer, stated that key directives include identifying and arresting the accused and verifying bonded labour practices at the dairy establishment. Additional instructions involve submitting a detailed medical report for the injured child.

The commission also requested preparation of a rehabilitation plan and thorough inquiry into potential violations of labour laws. The next hearing is set for November 4.

With inputs from PTI