2026 Marks 50th Anniversary of Bonded Labour System Abolition Act, 1976
In February 2026, the Government of India (GoI) marked the Golden Jubilee (50 years) of the Bonded Labour System (Abolition) Act, 1976, a landmark legislation enacted to eliminate bonded labour and debt bondage in India.
About Bonded Labour System (Abolition) Act, 1976:
Background: The Act was passed in 1976 during the tenure of former Prime Minister (PM) of India, Indira Gandhi. It came into force on February 9, 1976.
Implementation: The Ministry of Labour and Employment (MoL&E) oversees implementation at the national level.
Labour System Abolishment: The act abolished the bonded labour system across India, cancelled all bonded debts, liberated bonded labourers from exploitative obligations, and prohibited forced labour arising out of debt or social customs.
Framework: The act provides for District Magistrates to ensure enforcement, Vigilance Committees at district and sub-divisional levels, and identification, rescue, and rehabilitation of bonded labourers.