Palghar, Maharashtra: In a major crackdown on bonded labour, authorities have rescued 69 individuals, including several minors, from exploitative conditions in Maharashtra’s Ahilyanagar district. Acting on a tip-off from local activists, officials carried out a rescue operation on Thursday, resulting in the release of the labourers and the arrest of three accused.
The victims were reportedly forced to engage in strenuous labour, including stone cutting and sheep farming, under coercive conditions. Many were subjected to physical and mental abuse, according to the First Information Report (FIR) filed in the case.
Sandeep Harmalkar, a labour officer from Ahilyanagar, said the operation began with a raid on a few sites, leading to the initial rescue of 16 individuals. "This was part of a larger group totalling 69 people who were eventually freed from their captors.”
The rescued individuals have since been safely returned to their native villages in Palghar district.
Deputy Superintendent of Police Dr. Kunal Sonawane, based in Sangamner, confirmed the arrest of three suspects. “Efforts are ongoing to trace and apprehend the remaining three accused,” he said.
Bonded labour, where individuals are forced to work in order to repay debts or under financial duress, is prohibited under Indian law. The Bonded Labour System (Abolition) Act explicitly bans such practices, yet cases continue to emerge, highlighting the need for vigilant enforcement.
Authorities have assured continued investigation and support for the rescued individuals as part of their rehabilitation process.
