GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 10th July: The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) on Friday conducted an online hearing of 86 cases of alleged bonded labour in brick kilns across various districts of Haryana, stressing the need for stronger enforcement mechanisms and better protection of vulnerable workers.
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 functionaries of the Haryana government, including Chief Secretary Anurag Rastogi, Labour Commissioner Vijaykumar Bhavikatti and District Magistrates from all districts, also participated.
Justice Ramasubramanian observed that records in many cases had not been properly examined by the concerned authorities, making it difficult to establish credible evidence for declaring labourers as bonded labourers. He urged officials to remain vigilant while handling such cases and strictly follow the Standard Operating Procedure for Identification and Rescue of Bonded Labourers and Prosecution of Offenders, issued by the Ministry of Labour and Employment on May 14, 2026.
Highlighting the need for stronger monitoring, the NHRC Chairperson proposed launching a dedicated helpline for labourers along with maintaining proper employment records to help track and address incidents of bonded labour more effectively.
During the hearing, NHRC Joint Secretary Samir Kumar stressed 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 also reviewed Action Taken Reports submitted by District Magistrates on the complaints under consideration.
The Haryana Chief Secretary and Labour Commissioner assured the Commission that all 86 cases would be reviewed thoroughly and the required reports submitted. They also committed to ensuring full compliance with the directions of the Supreme Court and applicable laws to facilitate prompt action in bonded labour cases.
