Public Union For Civil Liberties vs State Of Tamil Nadu And Ors

The Supreme Court, while addressing the issue of bonded labour under the Bonded Labour System (Abolition) Act, 1976, emphasized the need for rehabilitation of bonded labourers as mandated by Article 23 of the Constitution. The Court directed the establishment of Vigilance Committees and the identification of both bonded labourers and exploitative employers, alongside ensuring alternative livelihoods and adequate support for the freed labourers. The Court reiterated that failure to rehabilitate these individuals would violate their rights under Articles 21 and 23, and mandated comprehensive measures for their welfare and protection.