Bonded Labour : Supreme Court Asks Union To Hold Meeting With States, NHRC On Inter-State Trafficking, Child Labour Issues

Expressing dismay at the non-release of immediate financial assistance to rescued bonded laborers, the Supreme Court today directed the Secretary, Ministry of Labor and Employment to hold a meeting with States/UTs and come up with a proposal to address the issue of inter-state human trafficking as well as release of immediate financial assistance to rescued child laborers.Taking specific note. Expressing dismay at the non-release of immediate financial assistance to rescued bonded laborers, the Supreme Court today directed the Secretary, Ministry of Labor and Employment to hold a meeting with States/UTs and come up with a proposal to address the issue of inter-state human trafficking as well as release of immediate financial assistance to rescued child laborers. Out of 5262 released bonded laborers, only 1101 have received immediate financial assistance.4167 are yet to receive.In order to address the issue of inter-state trafficking of children, the issue needs be addressed by the Union as well as all the states in a unified manner. In reply, Dr Vijendra, Standing Counsel for UP, sought 2 weeks' time to file an affidavit delineating district-wise data regarding release of bonded laborers and grant of immediate financial assistance.