NHRC hears 86 alleged bonded labour cases online, recommends dedicated helpline for workers
During the hearing, Justice Ramasubramanian observed that in many cases, official records had not been examined adequately, resulting in insufficient evidence to determine whether workers qualified as bonded labourers under
The cases were heard through an online review meeting chaired by NHRC Chairperson Justice V. Ramasubramanian, with senior officials from the Haryana Government, including Chief Secretary Anurag Rastogi, Labour Commissioner Vijaykumar Bhavikatti, and District Magistrates from across the state participating in the proceedings.
New Delhi: The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has reviewed 86 cases of alleged bonded labour in brick kilns across Haryana, directing state authorities to strengthen identification, rescue and rehabilitation mechanisms while ensuring strict compliance with Supreme Court directives and existing labour laws.
The cases were heard through an online review meeting chaired by NHRC Chairperson Justice V. Ramasubramanian, with senior officials from the Haryana Government, including Chief Secretary Anurag Rastogi, Labour Commissioner Vijaykumar Bhavikatti, and District Magistrates from across the state participating in the proceedings.
Better Documentation Needed
During the hearing, Justice Ramasubramanian observed that in many cases, official records had not been examined adequately, resulting in insufficient evidence to determine whether workers qualified as bonded labourers under the law.
He urged district authorities to exercise greater vigilance while investigating 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 14 May 2026.
The Chairperson also stressed the importance of proper documentation and systematic enquiry to ensure that genuine victims receive timely protection and rehabilitation.
NHRC Recommends Labour Helpline
Highlighting the need for improved reporting mechanisms, Justice Ramasubramanian proposed establishing a dedicated helpline for labourers, supported by proper employment records, to enable workers to seek assistance and facilitate early detection of bonded labour cases.
The Commission noted that such a mechanism could significantly improve monitoring and help authorities respond more effectively to complaints.
Advisory and Supreme Court Compliance
NHRC Joint Secretary Samir Kumar emphasised the importance of implementing the Commission’s “Advisory 2.0 to Identify, Release and Rehabilitate Bonded Labourers”, while ensuring timely action on NHRC directions.
The Commission reviewed Action Taken Reports (ATRs) submitted by District Magistrates for all cases under consideration.
The Haryana Chief Secretary and Labour Commissioner assured the Commission that all 86 cases would be re-examined, with comprehensive reports submitted as directed. They also committed to ensuring full compliance with the Supreme Court’s directions and applicable legal provisions governing bonded labour.
The review reflects NHRC’s continued efforts to strengthen institutional accountability and improve protection mechanisms for vulnerable workers employed in high-risk sectors such as brick kilns.
