Media’s Crucial Role in Creating a Bonded Labour-Free Society – Dr. Pandya
Media sensitization workshop concludes on bonded labour and human trafficking
Udaipur, Thanks to the proactive efforts of the Rajasthan government and the police department, several significant actions have been taken in recent years under the Bonded Labour System (Abolition) Act, 1976 and laws related to human trafficking. Not only have bonded labourers been freed and issued official release certificates, but work toward their rehabilitation has also been initiated. However, collective and sustained efforts are still needed to eradicate this social evil completely.
These thoughts were expressed by Dr. Shailendra Pandya, expert speaker and former member of the Rajasthan State Commission for Protection of Child Rights, during a one-day Media Sensitization Workshop held at a private hotel in Subhash Nagar, Udaipur. The event was jointly organized by the Information and Public Relations Department (Udaipur District), Gayatri Seva Sansthan, and International Justice Mission.
Dr. Pandya emphasized that media can play a key role in identifying victims, aiding in their rescue and rehabilitation, and exposing perpetrators. He noted that unlike other laws, the Bonded Labour Act also includes special provisions for economic support for victims' rehabilitation. Presenting data from the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB), Dr. Pandya explained the challenges faced in Rajasthan and the steps being taken by the government, underlining how media can act as a catalyst for change.
Deputy Director Gaurikant Sharma from the Information and Public Relations Department chaired the event and highlighted various outreach programs initiated by the government. He stressed the importance of media in raising public awareness on sensitive social issues like bonded labour and trafficking.
Advocate John James, representative of International Justice Mission, provided detailed insights into legal provisions of the Bonded Labour Act and anti-human trafficking laws, as well as relevant schemes for victim assistance.
Another expert, Sukhwinder Singh, shared information about rescue operations in Rajasthan, including the compensation and benefits provided to victims. A short film, Rice Factory, depicting indicators for identifying bonded labourers and the importance of maintaining confidentiality in media reporting, was also screened.
The workshop included case studies, dialogue sessions, and discussions on legal procedures. Participants were informed about how journalism can raise awareness and contribute to ending these social crimes.
Attendees included leading representatives from print and electronic media across the district, bonded labourers rescued in 2016, and members of Gayatri Seva Sansthan.
The workshop was moderated by Ashita Jain, and the vote of thanks was delivered by Nitin Paliwal of Gayatri Seva Sansthan.
साभार :
© CopyRight Pressnote.in | A Avid Web Solutions Venture.