Freed bonded labourers continue to run from pillar to post for relief under central scheme

[Brick Kiln Database - Related News]

Close to two years after the Centre increased the compensation amount for freed bonded labourers, at least 1,500 workers in Tamil Nadu continue to wait for this benefit to start life afresh. In May 2016, the ministry of labour and employment revamped a Centre-sponsored scheme for rehabilitation of bonded labourers and increased financial assistance for them from 20,000 to 1 lakh for men, and 2 lakh for children. However, disbursal of this amount has been delayed due to poor awareness among officials and protracted court proceedings.