Statewide Campaign Against Bonded Labour

The Telangana Government has launched a statewide awareness campaign to eradicate bonded labour, marking the 50th anniversary of the Bonded Labour System (Abolition) Act, 1976, and World Day Against Trafficking in Persons. A state-level conference was organised at Shamirpet in collaboration with the Government of Telangana, NALSAR University of Law and the International Justice Mission (IJM). During the event, TSLSA Member Secretary Chi. Panchakshari and NALSAR Vice-Chancellor Prof. Krishna Deva Rao flagged off the "Swechha Ratham," a special awareness vehicle that will travel across all 33 districts of Telangana.

The conference brought together government officials, legal experts, NGOs, survivors of bonded labour, media representatives and law students. Speakers stressed the need for coordinated efforts to identify, rescue and rehabilitate bonded labour victims while ensuring sustainable livelihoods. A special awareness song, a commemorative book marking 50 years of the Bonded Labour Act, and a toll-free helpline poster were also released. Former bonded labour survivor and current village Sarpanch P. Lingamma shared her journey and pledged continued support for victims.