Two child bonded labourers rescued from Ganjam

Bhubaneswar, Oct 14: The Ganjam District Administration successfully rescued two children, aged 13 and 14 years, hailing from Bihar, from exploitative working conditions in Hinjilikatu, under Ganjam district. The rescue was carried out through a coordinated operation led by the Tahasildar, Hinjilikatu, with the active support of the Police, Labour Department, Childline, and the Block Development Officer (BDO).

The case was initially brought to the notice of the District Collector, Ganjam, by a civil society organisation. Acting promptly, the Collector directed the Sub-Divisional Collector to initiate an immediate inquiry and ensure necessary action.

Upon investigation, it was revealed that the children had been trafficked from Bihar to Hinjilikatu after their parents were lured with false promises of ₹1,000–₹3,000 per month as advance payment. In reality, the children were forced to work for nearly 14 hours a day at two Panipuri units owned by one Amar Nath Chaudhury. They were given daily sales targets and subjected to physical abuse if they failed to meet them. The children were also deprived of wages for the past seven months and were denied freedom of movement.

Following their rescue, a bonded labour enquiry was conducted in the presence of all concerned officials at the office of the Tahasildar. The children subsequently underwent a medical examination and were produced before the Child Welfare Committee (CWC), which has ensured their safe placement in a shelter home for care and rehabilitation.

The District Administration has reiterated its commitment to protecting the rights of children and preventing all forms of child and bonded labour. Strict legal action is being initiated against the accused employer under relevant provisions of the law.