The correct answer is (c). The Bonded Labour Abolition Act was passed in India in 1976. The Act prohibits the practice of bonded labour and provides for the rehabilitation of bonded labourers. The Act defines bonded labour as “the state of being in bondage by reason of any debt or contract or otherwise.” It also defines “bonded labourer” as “any person who has been or is required to render any service or to pay any debt or part of any debt as a condition of his service or for the consideration of any loan advanced to him or any member of his family for agricultural or non-agricultural purposes.” The Act provides for the following penalties for the offence of bonded labour:
- Imprisonment for a term which may extend to three years, or
- Fine which may extend to Rs. 20,000, or
- Both.
The Act also provides for the following relief and rehabilitation measures for bonded labourers:
- Release from bondage,
- Payment of wages due,
- Repatriation to their original place of residence,
- Provision of land and other assistance for self-employment, and
- Medical treatment and rehabilitation.
The Bonded Labour Abolition Act is a landmark legislation that has helped to free millions of bonded labourers in India. The Act has been instrumental in bringing about a significant decline in the incidence of bonded labour in the country. However, there is still a long way to go before bonded labour is completely eradicated from India. The government and civil society organizations need to continue to work together to ensure that all bonded labourers are freed and rehabilitated.
The other options are incorrect because they are not the years in which the Bonded Labour Abolition Act was passed in India.