Pune: 12 Bonded Laborers Rescued From Jaggery Unit Through DLSA’s Intervention
Pune: 12 Bonded Laborers Rescued From Jaggery Unit Through DLSA's Intervention
Pune, August 1, 2025: In a joint operation conducted on the occasion of World Anti-Trafficking Day, a total of 12 bonded laborers were rescued from a jaggery production unit in Alegaon Paga, Shirur Taluka , thanks to the efforts of the District Legal Services Authority (DLSA) led by Secretary Sonal Patil , along with the district administration, labor department, and local police . The rescued individuals expressed their gratitude to the district administration.
The rescue mission was launched following a complaint received by the NGO India Labourline regarding the exploitation of workers at a jaggery unit. The victims, including seven children , were residents of Paithan, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar . They had reportedly received advance payments, were subjected to movement restrictions, and suffered physical abuse for nearly two years . They were also removed from work without due process.
Based on the complaint, an FIR was registered against Sandeep Balu Dubey under the Bonded Labor System (Abolition) Act, 1976 and relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code .
Considering the seriousness of the case, the administration ensured that the entire process of rescue was carried out within 24 hours in accordance with bonded labor protocols. The workers were also issued release certificates and arrangements were made for their safe return to their hometown of Paithan .
The operation was carried out under the guidelines of the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA), New Delhi , with the involvement of Carol Pereira , Adv. Devbhakt Mahapure , and legal volunteers Rupesh Chavan and Deepak , informed Secretary Sonal Patil through an official press release.
