BondedLabour – Prakasam Administration Rescues Tribal Families After Decade of Forced Work

BondedLabour – Ten members of three tribal families in Andhra Pradesh’s Prakasam district have been released from bonded labour after authorities intervened following reports of long-term exploitation. The district administration confirmed that the affected families had allegedly been forced to work for more than a decade under difficult conditions after taking a small loan from a local farmer.

Rescue Operation Triggered by Community Complaint

According to officials, the families were living and working in Alluru village of Kothapatnam mandal, where they had been engaged in labour activities in Subabul plantations. The workers were reportedly unable to leave the employment arrangement after borrowing Rs 20,000 more than 11 years ago. Authorities stated that the debt was allegedly used to keep the families tied to the work through intimidation and continuous pressure.

The situation came to light when tribal community representatives informed district officials about the conditions faced by the families. Following the complaint, the administration conducted an inquiry and initiated immediate measures to secure the workers’ release.

Relief Certificates Distributed During Public Programme

Prakasam District Collector P Raja Babu formally handed over Bonded Labour Relief Certificates to the rescued individuals during the Palle Nidra programme held in P Gudipadu village of Korisapadu mandal on Friday. The certificates officially recognize the victims as bonded labour survivors and enable them to access government support schemes designed for rehabilitation.

Officials present at the event emphasized that the administration remains committed to protecting vulnerable communities and ensuring that workers are not subjected to exploitative labour practices.

Rehabilitation and Resettlement Support Planned

The district administration has assured comprehensive assistance to the affected families. Authorities said arrangements are being made to provide rehabilitation and resettlement support aimed at helping them rebuild their lives independently.

Government departments are expected to coordinate efforts to ensure that the rescued individuals receive access to welfare benefits, livelihood opportunities, and other forms of assistance available under existing social protection programmes.

Government Reaffirms Stand Against Bonded Labour

Addressing the gathering, Collector P Raja Babu reiterated the government’s determination to eliminate bonded labour and safeguard the rights of marginalized groups. He stressed the importance of community participation in identifying such cases and reporting them to authorities so that timely action can be taken.

Officials noted that awareness campaigns and monitoring efforts would continue across the district to prevent similar incidents and strengthen protection mechanisms for vulnerable families.

Officials and Community Leaders Attend Event

Several senior officials and community representatives were present during the programme. Among those attending were Addanki Revenue Divisional Officer Johnson, District Panchayat Officer Venkateswara Rao, Zilla Parishad Chief Executive Officer Chiranjeevi, along with local tribal leaders and residents.

The administration said the successful rescue highlights the importance of cooperation between government agencies and community groups in addressing labour exploitation and ensuring that affected individuals receive legal protection and support.