A 23-year-old woman from Sahibganj district in Jharkhand, who had been missing for nearly four years, was rescued from a household in Gurugram on Thursday following intervention by the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC).
Complaint and Action
The rescue operation was initiated after a complaint was filed by Mission Mukti Foundation, a Delhi-based NGO. The NGO alleged that the woman was illegally confined and forced to work as domestic help under conditions resembling bonded labour. The NHRC took cognizance of the matter and issued directives to the concerned authorities.
NHRC Directive
NHRC Member Priyank Kanoongo, in a communication dated May 22, cited inputs received through Jharkhand Bhawan. The Commission directed the Gurugram police, district administration, labour department officials, and the anti-human trafficking unit to take immediate action. “The Commission had sought an action taken report within three days,” said Virender Kumar Singh, director of Mission Mukti Foundation.
Background
The woman had been missing from her home in Sahibganj since 2020. Her family had filed a missing person report, but no significant progress was made until the NGO brought the matter to the NHRC. The rescue operation highlights the persistent issue of bonded labour and human trafficking in India, despite legal prohibitions.
Legal Implications
Bonded labour is prohibited under the Bonded Labour System (Abolition) Act, 1976, and the practice is also a violation of fundamental rights under Article 23 of the Indian Constitution. The rescued woman is currently undergoing counseling and medical examination. Authorities are investigating the case, and the employer may face charges under relevant laws.
The incident underscores the role of human rights bodies and NGOs in combating modern slavery. The NHRC has urged state governments to strengthen enforcement mechanisms to prevent such exploitation.
