New Delhi: The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) on Friday conducted an online hearing into 86 cases of alleged bonded labour in brick kilns across various districts of Haryana, stressing the need for stricter implementation of laws, better investigations, and stronger mechanisms to identify and rescue bonded labourers.
The hearing was chaired by NHRC Chairperson Justice V. Ramasubramanian in the presence of Joint Secretary Samir Kumar, Joint Registrar (Law) Indrajeet Kumar, and other senior officials. Senior Haryana government officials, including Chief Secretary Anurag Rastogi, Labour Commissioner Vijaykumar Bhavikatti, and District Magistrates from across the state, also participated.
NHRC Flags Gaps in Investigations
During the hearing, Justice Ramasubramanian observed that records in many cases had not been examined thoroughly, resulting in a lack of credible evidence to declare affected workers as bonded labourers.
He urged officials to remain vigilant while handling such complaints and directed them to strictly follow the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for Identification and Rescue of Bonded Labourers and Prosecution of Offenders, issued by the Ministry of Labour and Employment on May 14, 2026, while constituting inquiry teams.
The NHRC Chairperson also recommended launching a dedicated helpline to enable labourers to seek assistance and facilitate timely reporting and tracking of bonded labour cases.
NHRC Calls for Full Compliance
NHRC Joint Secretary Samir Kumar emphasised the importance of implementing the Commission’s directions and acting in accordance with its “Advisory 2.0 to Identify, Release and Rehabilitate Bonded Labourers.”
The Commission reviewed the Action Taken Reports (ATRs) submitted by District Magistrates regarding the complaints under consideration.
During the proceedings, Chief Secretary Anurag Rastogi and Labour Commissioner Vijaykumar Bhavikatti assured the Commission that all 86 cases would be reviewed afresh and that the required reports would be submitted.
The state government also assured the NHRC that it would ensure full compliance with Supreme Court directions and all applicable laws to facilitate prompt identification, rescue, rehabilitation, and legal action in bonded labour cases.
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