Karnataka Man Alleges Three Decades of Bonded Labour in Udupi
In a distressing case from Udupi, Karnataka, a 65-year-old man from the Koraga community has come forward with allegations of being forced into bonded labour for nearly 30 years. The incident has prompted the Kundapur Rural police to register a formal case, highlighting severe human rights violations in the region.
Details of the Alleged Exploitation
According to the complaint filed at the Kundapur Rural police station, the victim, identified as Naga, resides in Kanyana village within Kundapur taluk. He claims that his ordeal began approximately 30 years ago when he was brought to work by Subbanna Shetty, also known as Shanappa Shetty, from Kabbailu, Hemmady. Following Subbanna Shetty's death, his daughter Rajani Shetty and her husband Karunakara Shetty allegedly continued to hold Naga in servitude at their residence.
The victim reported being subjected to grueling tasks without proper compensation or basic living conditions. His duties included grazing cattle, performing agricultural work in the fields, removing cattle dung, and cleaning the house toilet. Shockingly, he was forced to sleep in the cattle shed and keep his personal belongings, such as clothes and utensils, there. Meals were served to him on banana leaves within the same shed, further underscoring the inhumane treatment.
Legal Action and Police Response
Naga asserted that he received no salary throughout this period and was not permitted to leave the premises, effectively trapping him in a cycle of exploitation. Based on his detailed complaint, the Kundapur Rural police have taken swift action by registering a case under section 3(1)(H) of the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act. This legal step aims to address the alleged atrocities and ensure justice for the victim.
The case sheds light on broader issues of bonded labour and discrimination faced by marginalized communities in India. It underscores the urgent need for stricter enforcement of laws protecting vulnerable groups and raising awareness about their rights. Authorities are now investigating the matter thoroughly to hold the accused accountable and prevent similar incidents in the future.
