Bhubaneswar: To shed light on the persistent issue of bonded labour and call for collective action toward its eradication, a series of awareness and sensitisation programmes were organised across Odisha to mark ‘Bonded Labour Abolition Day‘ on Wednesday.
Shramavahini, an association of over 4,000 freed bonded labourers, in collaboration with survivors and coalition members, launched a campaign titled “Ama Panchayata Shramik Challan Mukta” (Our Panchayat, Free from Labour Exploitation).
A range of initiatives — including public rallies, educational campaigns, panel discussions, and interactive workshops — were organised in Balangir, Nuapada, and Kalahandi districts known to be prone to bonded labour. A film was also screened in Bhubaneswar to mark the day.
Survivors shared personal experiences, narrating their ordeals as well as stories of resilience and freedom. “We must think twice before taking an advance or signing up for work at unfamiliar places. A little awareness and caution can prevent us from falling into the trap of bonded labour,” said Santoshini Nag, president of Shramavahini from Balangir. She recalled her own harrowing experience and said, “My husband was injured at a brick kiln, but they still forced him to work despite his broken leg. When he could no longer bear it, I had to do his share of work along with mine. We would have died had the govt not rescued us.”
Earlier on Dec 5, 2024, minister of state for labour and employment Shobha Karandlaje informed the Rajya Sabha that 155 bonded labourers were rescued in Odisha in 2023-24. Following this, the Supreme Court asked all state govts in the country to submit a report on action taken for the rehabilitation of freed bonded labourers.
Experts from diverse fields, including law enforcement, legal aid, and social welfare, participated in discussions, providing insights into combating bonded labour through policy reforms, enforcement mechanisms, and survivor rehabilitation. Special sessions were also organised for students and youth, aiming to educate and inspire them to become active advocates in the fight against bonded labour.