National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) Chairperson Justice V. Ramasubramanian presided over an online hearing addressing 86 cases of alleged bonded labour in brick kilns across various districts of Haryana. During the session, Chief Secretary Anurag Rastogi and officials committed to reviewing all 86 cases and providing necessary information and reports as directed by the NHRC.
Justice Ramasubramanian emphasized the importance of proper examination of records by government officials to establish credible evidence for identifying bonded labourers. He stressed the need for compliance with Supreme Court directives and relevant laws to ensure prompt action in such cases.
The Chairperson urged officials to adhere to the Standard Operating Procedure for Identification and Rescue of Bonded Labourers while forming enquiry teams. Additionally, he called for the establishment of a helpline to aid labourers in distress and monitor instances of bonded labour effectively.
Joint Secretary of NHRC, Samir Kumar, underscored the significance of following NHRC guidelines and implementing actions in line with the ‘Advisory 2.0 to Identify, Release and Rehabilitate Bonded Labourers.’ The hearing was attended by senior state government officials, including Labour Commissioner Vijaykumar Bhavikatti and District Magistrates from all districts.
