Indian states launch coordinated bonded labour release drive across brick kilns

A multi-state operation frees over 4,800 workers from debt bondage, the largest coordinated action since the Bonded Labour Abolition Act was passed.

Authorities in Uttar Pradesh, Punjab and Tamil Nadu conducted synchronized inspections across brick kiln clusters, releasing thousands of families held in debt bondage, many of whom had worked seasons without wages against advances they could never repay.

Released workers receive rehabilitation certificates entitling them to compensation and housing support, though advocates note that fewer than half of previously released workers received full entitlements.