Rescue Operation Uncovers Human Exploitation of Bonded Labourers in Bihar

In a harrowing case, 47 bonded labourers from Assam were rescued from a brick kiln in Bihar, where they faced severe abuse and exploitation. The group, including men, women, and children, had sought work but instead endured confinement and violence. Authorities have arrested the kiln owner and are investigating further allegations, including sexual abuse of minors. This incident underscores the ongoing risks faced by migrant labourers in unregulated environments, prompting calls for better protections and oversight.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 13, 2026, 18:06 IST

Rescue of Bonded Labourers from Bihar

Survivors aboard one of the two buses, moments before being handed over to Dhubri Police on Monday. (AT Photo)

Dhubri, Apr 13: In a shocking incident of alleged human trafficking, 47 bonded labourers from the Dhubri district of Assam have been rescued from a brick kiln in Bihar, revealing serious allegations of abuse, violence, and forced labour.

The group, which includes men, women, and children, had traveled to Bihar nearly seven months ago seeking employment.

Instead, they report being confined at the Star Marka Eint Bhatta in Dhamsaini, located in the Saharsa district, where they were compelled to work under dire conditions without any compensation.

Officials stated that the rescue operation was executed by a team from the Saharsa Police Station, who transported the labourers back in two buses and handed them over to the Dhubri police on Monday.

Labour Officer Ravindra Kumar Sarma confirmed that all 47 labourers and their children have been safely returned home.

“The perpetrator has been apprehended. The rescued individuals are receiving necessary assistance, and measures are being taken for their rehabilitation,” he stated.

The owner of the kiln, identified as Md. Owais Qarni, also known as Chunna Mukhia, has been arrested in connection with the case.

However, seven minor girls rescued from the same location remain in Bihar, currently placed in a children's home in Saharsa under administrative care. Officials are making arrangements to ensure their safety and well-being.

Several survivors have reported severe mistreatment during their time at the kiln. Refaz Ali, a labourer from Airanjongla village, stated that they were not compensated for their work and faced violence.

“We went there to earn a living, but we were treated worse than animals. We were not paid even a single rupee and had no way to escape,” he recounted. He also mentioned that his wife, Maleka Bibi, suffered a gunshot wound to her leg on March 27.

Another survivor, Ali Sk, claimed that minor girls at the site were subjected to sexual abuse by the perpetrators. These allegations have not been independently verified by authorities.

Survivors also recounted experiences of physical torture and intimidation. Kasemuddin, another survivor, reported that they were regularly beaten and forced to work beyond their limits, while Chandra Banu claimed they were denied sufficient food and shelter.

Authorities have indicated that further investigations are ongoing to determine the full extent of the alleged abuses.

This incident has once again brought to light the vulnerability of migrant labourers and the dangers of exploitation in unregulated work environments.