Despite the implementation of stricter labour laws, many workers continue to suffer exploitation in various industries. A distressing incident has come to light from an old dhaba near Kittur, where a 26-year-old cook was found chained at his legs while working. The young man, originally from Uttar Pradesh, had been serving customers and preparing food with his legs bound for an extended period.
The police revealed that the man had been working at the dhaba for several years after migrating from Uttar Pradesh in search of work. Despite regular visits by authorities to the dhaba, his exploitation went unnoticed until this discovery. The dhaba’s owner is accused of chaining the worker and forcing him to work under conditions akin to bonded labour.
“The worker, part of a five-member family, had been employed at the dhaba for many years,” said Police Inspector Sameer Mulla. “We were unaware of the owner’s actions. After finding the worker chained, we have registered an FIR against the dhaba owner.” Police have taken steps to free the labourer and ensure he receives medical treatment.
Authorities are investigating whether other workers at the dhaba, many of whom are from North India, particularly Uttar Pradesh, are being exploited in a similar manner. These labourers, many of whom came seeking better prospects, have reportedly been working for meager wages, trapped in the cycle of exploitation without any alternative.
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