Hundreds of labourers are now set free from a factory in Uttar Pradesh’s Muzaffarnagar after a major police operation that revealed their alleged “inhumane” conditions of working and residing in a bonded labour camp.
Investigators have said that the members of the exhausted team who were rescued found themselves victims of brutal abuse and exploitation. Police sources reported that several construction site labourers had serious physical injuries and swelling on their limbs, with some even showing signs of being mistreated over the long haul. The victims are allegedly beaten with a variety of instruments frequently used for animal handling, while at work, and held under close guard after work hours.
The probe has shed disturbing light on conditions for the workers in their daily lives. According to reports, the food received by the labourers was wheat bran rotis once in 24 hours, along with salt and green chillies. The labourers are alleged to have been deprived their basic needs and access to the exits of the farm, which has sparked concerns around human trafficking and bonded labour.
The investigation has also found allegations related to the deaths of three workers who were related to this factory. Police now have a list of questions to answer about the deaths, including if they had come as a result of the alleged abuse or bad living conditions or other criminal acts. The investigation will continue by taking additional forensic and documentary evidence.
The law has been invoked, and officials are continuing to investigate and determine the extent of the network that was involved in the operation. A number of the rescued labourers have been given medical treatment and help, and police are carrying on their investigation of what has been termed a serious case of labour exploitation and human rights violations.