Q. Despite the efforts of the government, bonded labour still continues in India. Discuss.

Model Answer:

Bonded labour

Bonded labour, a form of forced labour where individuals are compelled by debt or coercion to work, continues in India despite governmental efforts for its eradication. The government has enacted laws such as the Bonded Labour System (Abolition) Act, 1976, yet this social evil persists.

From a sociological perspective:
• Structural factors: Persistent poverty and inequality perpetuate bonded labour.
• Marxist theory: Economic exploitation forces the proletariat into such conditions.
• Feudal remnants and caste hierarchies: M.N. Srinivas’s analysis shows how higher caste dominance in rural areas can lead to forced labour practices.
• Social exclusion: Marginalized communities like Dalits and Adivasis are vulnerable due to limited access to education and awareness.
• Systemic caste oppression: Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s “Annihilation of Caste” emphasizes how this sustains injustices.

Economic factors:
• Lack of alternate employment and indebtedness due to informal high-interest lending trap individuals.
• Vicious cycle of poverty leads to intergenerational bondage.

Implementation issues:
• Poor law enforcement due to corruption and lack of political will at grassroots levels.
• Functionalist perspective: Societal institutions fail when laws are not upheld.

Modern forms:
• Migrant workers in urban centers, lacking legal protections, become susceptible.
• Examples: Industries like brick kilns and carpet weaving factories.

Conclusion: Despite government efforts, bonded labour endures due to deep-rooted socio-economic structures and implementation gaps, requiring a multifaceted approach for eradication.