Published Paper Details:

The Tamil Nadu Bonded Labour System (Abolition) Act, 1976, was passed in order to end the widespread problem of vulnerable people being exploited through bonded labour, which is prevalent in the informal and rural sectors. This study examines the Act's efficacy in Tamil Nadu, concentrating on its application, difficulties, and effects on the lives of those who have been rescued. Bonded labour persists despite the legal framework established by the Act because of things like socioeconomic inequality, insufficient enforcement, and ignorance. Because of things like socioeconomic inequality, poor enforcement, and ignorance, bonded labour still exists despite the legal framework the Act provides. The study investigates the activities of the government, law enforcement agencies, and non-governmental groups in combatting bonded labour and analysing the rehabilitation efforts for liberated labourers. It shows the progress done in terms of rescue operations and awareness campaigns while also exposing weaknesses in enforcement and rehabilitation systems. Although the Act has helped to legally outlaw bonded labour, the study's conclusion makes the case that tackling underlying problems like poverty, illiteracy, and caste-based exploitation is crucial to long-term success. In order to completely remove bonded labour in Tamil Nadu and elsewhere, a thorough and multifaceted strategy is required.