Noida Couple Faces FIR for Alleged Bonded Labour and Assault of Jharkhand Woman
In a disturbing case emerging from Greater Noida, an FIR has been registered against a couple for allegedly confining a 20-year-old woman from Jharkhand, forcing her into bonded labour, and subjecting her to physical assault and molestation at their residence in the Gamma 1 area. The complaint was filed on Sunday by the victim's sister, bringing to light a harrowing ordeal that began in 2020.
Details of the Alleged Exploitation
According to police reports, the accused man, identified as Vijay Sharma, brought the woman from her village in Ranchi, Jharkhand, under the pretext of offering her work and a better future. At the time, she was a minor. Initially, her family maintained contact through phone calls, but communication ceased after a period, raising concerns.
The couple allegedly prevented the woman from contacting her family and concealed her whereabouts, effectively isolating her. The situation escalated when she was forced to perform household chores without receiving any wages, a clear indication of bonded labour. When she resisted these demands, she reportedly faced physical assault and was barred from returning home.
Furthermore, the woman has accused Vijay Sharma of repeatedly molesting her, adding a severe layer of sexual abuse to the exploitation. The matter came to light on March 17 when the victim managed to secretly contact her sister and reveal the full extent of her suffering.
Rescue and Legal Action
Upon learning of her sister's plight, the family approached a non-governmental organization (NGO), which intervened promptly to facilitate her rescue. Police officials confirmed that the woman has been moved to a One Stop Centre, where she is receiving necessary support and care to aid her recovery.
Based on the formal complaint, an FIR has been registered against Vijay Sharma and Tanvi Sharma under multiple sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). The charges include:
- Section 74: Assault or criminal force against a woman with intent to outrage her modesty
- Section 115(2): Voluntarily causing hurt
- Section 143: Trafficking of a person
Authorities have stated that statements are currently being recorded as part of the ongoing investigation. The victim's identity has been withheld in accordance with Supreme Court directives to protect her privacy in cases involving sexual assault.
This case underscores the persistent issues of human trafficking and bonded labour in urban areas, highlighting the critical role of NGOs and law enforcement in combating such crimes. The community and authorities are urged to remain vigilant to prevent similar incidents.
