Tiruvallur Bonded Labour Rescue

In a major Tiruvallur bonded labour rescue, 39 Odisha migrant workers were rescued from a brick kiln at Vannipakkam village in Ponneri taluk of Tiruvallur district. The workers, who belonged to Balangir district in Odisha, were reportedly brought to Tamil Nadu nearly five months ago after advances of around Rs 30,000 were allegedly paid for each worker.

The rescue operation was carried out by the District Legal Services Authority and Revenue officials after complaints were raised about forced labour, poor wages and harsh working conditions. Officials inspected the brick kiln and found that the workers were allegedly being made to work under exploitative conditions.

Abuse Allegations And Rehabilitation

The rescued group also included seven children at the site, including a 17-year-old who was allegedly made to work. The workers claimed they were beaten or kicked when they refused to work continuously. Officials also found that the labourers were staying in cramped rooms without proper fans, drinking water or toilet facilities.

The workers were allegedly paid only Rs 65 per day despite long working hours. After the rescue, they were sheltered at a nearby school. Authorities started the process of issuing release certificates, opening bank accounts and arranging interim rehabilitation assistance of Rs 30,000 for each rescued worker before helping them return to Odisha. This Tamil Nadu bonded labour case has again raised concerns over the safety and rights of migrant workers employed in brick kilns.