More than 200 released bonded labourers from across Odisha gathered in Bhubaneswar on Thursday to demand stronger action against trafficking for bonded labour and improved rehabilitation for survivors.
The event, organised by Shramavahini, a survivor‑led collective with over 4,000 members, marked the United Nations World Day Against Trafficking in Persons and the 50th anniversary of the Bonded Labour System Abolition Act, 1976.
Survivors shared how they are now taking leadership roles in identifying vulnerable communities, promoting safe migration, supporting newly rescued labourers and strengthening vigilance against trafficking.
Addressing the gathering, Odisha Law, Works and Excise Minister Prithviraj Harichandan pledged stringent legal action against traffickers and middlemen. “We will ensure swift prosecution and strict punishment for offenders. Bonded labour and human trafficking will not be tolerated in Odisha,” he said.
To mark the occasion, the Minister released the Odia translation of the revised Central Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) on Bonded Labour, providing frontline officials with clear guidance on identification, rescue, repatriation and rehabilitation. He also unveiled ‘Restored in Odisha’, a publication documenting the State’s initiatives and reforms to combat bonded labour.
A panel discussion brought together representatives from the Odisha Government, Legal Services Authority, civil society and academia, focusing on improving victim identification, inter‑State coordination and community‑based prevention.
Shramavahini secretary Ranjita Rana, herself a survivor, urged the government to institutionalise February 9 as Bonded Labour Abolition Day across districts to strengthen awareness. The collective also called for timely investigation and prosecution, and rehabilitation that includes livelihoods, housing, healthcare, education and social security.
The consultation concluded with participants reaffirming their commitment to collaborative action for the eradication of bonded labour in Odisha.
