NHRC hears 216 brick-kiln bonded labour cases from UP

NHRC hearing on bonded labour in UP brick kilns: what happened?

Bonded labour was abolished by law in 1976, yet complaints from brick kilns keep reaching the NHRC. This hearing covered 216 such cases from UP districts. The Commission’s message was blunt: the problem persists because officials do not act.

• NHRC heard 216 cases of alleged bonded labour in brick kilns across UP districts on 16 April 2026 [PIB].
• The Chairperson said lapses denied workers rescue, release and rehabilitation under the Bonded Labour System (Abolition) Act, 1976 [PIB].

What did the NHRC point out?

• Records were not produced and minimum wage norms were not followed.
• Such omissions deny workers rescue, release and rehabilitation under the 1976 Act and the Central Sector Scheme.
• Inaction leaves labourers in poverty and open to exploitation.
• Action Taken Reports from DMs were reviewed.

What did the State promise?

• Review of all 216 cases and reports within three weeks.
• Full compliance with Supreme Court directives and the law.

What does the Constitution say?

• Article 23(1) prohibits traffic in human beings and begar and other similar forms of forced labour.
• Any contravention is an offence punishable in accordance with law.

What can Prelims ask on NHRC hearing on bonded labour in UP brick kilns?

• Bonded Labour System (Abolition) Act, 1976.
• Article 23: prohibition of traffic in human beings and forced labour.