Bonded Labour

A practice where a person is forced to provide service to a creditor in exchange for a loan or debt, often resulting in a cycle of exploitation where the debt remains unpayable due to manipulated accounts or lack of wages.

Why it matters

Represents a severe violation of fundamental human rights and constitutional protections against forced labour.
Indicates systemic failure in the implementation of protective labour laws and social security nets for vulnerable populations.
Reflects the intersection of socio-economic marginalization, lack of access to formal credit, and the failure of local governance mechanisms.

How it is asked

Focus on the legal framework for identification and rehabilitation, the role of District Magistrates in enforcement, and the socio-economic drivers that perpetuate debt-based exploitation.

In the syllabus

Poverty and hunger: issues and management GS2
Welfare schemes for vulnerable sections GS2

In the news

Rescue of bonded tribal workers in AP 22 August

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