Constitution of IndiaPart IIIFundamental Right

Article 23

Prohibition of Traffic in Human Beings and Forced Labour

human traffickingforced labourbegarbonded labourtraffickingexploitation

Plain English Explanation

Article 23 prohibits human trafficking, begar (forced labour without payment), and all other forms of forced labour. This right is available against both the state and private individuals. The Bonded Labour System (Abolition) Act, 1976 and the Trafficking of Persons (Prevention, Protection and Rehabilitation) Bill implement this article. The Supreme Court in People's Union for Democratic Rights v. Union of India (1982) held that payment of below-minimum wage also amounts to forced labour.

Legal Text

The Constitution of India · Article 23

(1) Traffic in human beings and begar and other similar forms of forced labour are prohibited and any contravention of this provision shall be an offence punishable in accordance with law.