Right Against Exploitation, Meaning, Provisions, Importance

Right against exploitation is a fundamental right written in the Constitution of India in the form of Article 23 and Article 24. This right helps in protecting the dignity and freedom of citizens of India and ensure social justice. Individuals are provided protection against forced labour, human trafficking and child exploitation under this right. In this article, we are going to cover all about Article 23 and Article 24 that is Right against Exploitation. 

Right Against Exploitation Meaning

The Right Against Exploitation is mentioned in the Constitution of India as a fundamental right. The provisions of the article are written in the form of Article 23 and Article 24 and cover the types of exploitation. This makes sure that  the individual rights are protected and the principles of social justice are maintained so that people are not subject to coercion, abuse and dehumanisation. 

Right Against Exploitation Provisions in Indian Constitution

Right Against Exploitation has the following provisions mentioned in the Constitution of India: 

Article 23- Prohibition of Trafficking in Human Beings and Forced Labour 

Article 23 prohibits trafficking in human beings and all forms of forced labour, including begar and bonded labour. Violations are punishable by law, and the right applies to both citizens and non-citizens, protecting individuals against both State and private actions.

Traffic in Human Beings
The term covers:

• Buying and selling of men, women, and children as commodities.
• Immoral trafficking in women and children, including prostitution.
• Practices like devadasi system and slavery.
• To curb these practices, Parliament enacted the Immoral Traffic (Prevention) Act, 1956.
  

Forced Labour
Forced labour means forcing a person to work against their will through physical, legal, or economic coercion (e.g., work for less than minimum wages).

Begar: A form of unpaid forced labour under the Zamindari System where tenants were made to work without remuneration.

Key laws against forced labour:

• Bonded Labour System (Abolition) Act, 1976
• Minimum Wages Act, 1948
• Contract Labour Act, 1970
• Equal Remuneration Act, 1976
• Exception: The State may impose compulsory service for public purposes (e.g., military or social service) without payment, provided there is no discrimination based on religion, race, caste, or class.

Article 24- Prohibition of Employment of Children in Hazardous Activities

Article 24 bans employment of children below 14 years in factories, mines, and other hazardous occupations, but allows it in non-hazardous work.

Important laws included are:

• Child Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Act, 1986 (and amendments)
• Employment of Children Act, 1938
• Factories Act, 1948
• Mines Act, 1952
• Merchant Shipping Act, 1958
• Plantation Labour Act, 1951
• Motor Transport Workers Act, 1951
• Apprentices Act, 1961
• Bidi and Cigar Workers Act, 1966

Some important Government Initiatives include: 

• Creation of Child Labour Rehabilitation Welfare Fund, funded by penalties paid by offending employers.
• Establishment of National and State Commissions for Protection of Child Rights.
• Setting up of Children’s Courts for speedy trials of offences against children.

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Right Against Exploitation Importance

Right Against Exploitation has the following significance: 

• Protection of Human Rights : Protects individuals from exploitation, giving dignity and fundamental rights.
• Prevention of Human Trafficking: Does not allow the illegal trade of people for forced labour, slavery, or other exploitative purposes.
• Elimination of Forced Labour: Eradicates bonded labour, begar, and other coercive work practices, ensuring fair and voluntary employment.
• Protects Children:  Bans child labour in hazardous jobs, protecting their health, education, and overall well-being.
• Promotion of Social Justice: Holds both state and private actors accountable, fostering fairness and equality in society.
• Support for Vulnerable Groups: Protects women, children, and marginalised communities from exploitation and abuse.
• Encouragement of Ethical Labour Practices: Promotes fair wages, humane working conditions, and respect for workers’ rights.