Prohibition of traffic in human beings and forced labour
Quick Summary (TL;DR)
Prohibits human trafficking, beggar (forced unpaid labour), and all similar forms of modern slavery or physical exploitation.
In Simple Citizen Words
Article 23 protects every vulnerable person against physical exploitation, bonded labour, human trafficking, and being forced to work against their will or for less than the statutory minimum wage. Under the Supreme Court's Asiad Workers ruling, forcing someone to work under economic distress for less than statutory wages is considered unconstitutional forced labour under Article 23.
What Rights You Have
Immunity from bonded labour or forced servitude
Right to receive statutory minimum wages for all work performed
State duty to liberate and rehabilitate victims of trafficking
Exceptions & Reasonable Restrictions
The State may impose compulsory public service for public purposes (such as national defense) without discriminating on grounds of religion, race, caste, or class.
Why This Matters in Daily Life
Protects brick kiln workers, migrant labourers, domestic workers, and trafficking victims from debt bondage and modern enslavement.
Want deeper legal & historical context? Explore the official Bare Act or Supreme Court Precedents & CAD Debates: