Bonded Labour System (Abolition) Act, 1976
The Bonded Labour System (Abolition) Act, 1976 (Act No. 19 of 1976) is the primary legislation abolishing the bonded labour system in India. It was deemed to have come into force retrospectively from 25 October 1975. The Act makes bonded labour a cognizable offence and extinguishes all bonded debts.
- Section 4: All bonded labour obligations are extinguished on the Act's commencement; all advances, debts, or obligations creating bondage are void.
- Section 16: Whoever compels a person to render bonded labour is punishable with imprisonment up to three years and a fine.
- Section 14: District Magistrates (DMs) are the primary implementing authority — they must conduct surveys to identify bonded labour, inquire into complaints, release bonded labourers, and prosecute offenders.
- Vigilance Committees: District-level committees comprising social workers, SC/ST community members, and government officials; responsible for economic and social rehabilitation.
- Rehabilitation Scheme (2021 revision): Immediate assistance of Rs 30,000 per rescued labourer; further Rs 1 lakh, Rs 2 lakh, or Rs 3 lakh depending on the category and degree of exploitation. Child bonded labourers receive the highest tier of assistance.
- Identification, release, and rehabilitation is the primary responsibility of State Governments/UTs.
● Tracked since February 19, 2026 · last seen May 19, 2026 · updates as the daily brief publishes
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