Which Fundamental Right protects citizens from being forced into labour or human trafficking?

Correct option is D

Correct Answer: (d) Right against Exploitation
Explanation:
· The Right against Exploitation, guaranteed under Articles 23 and 24 of the Indian Constitution, protects citizens from forced labour, human trafficking, and child labour in hazardous industries.
· This is a vital Fundamental Right ensuring human dignity and personal liberty.
· Article 23 explicitly prohibits human trafficking, begar (forced labour), and other similar forms of exploitation.
· It applies to both State and private individuals, making it a powerful constitutional safeguard.
· Any violation of this Right is a punishable offence under law, reflecting India’s commitment to abolishing exploitative practices.
Information Booster :
· Human trafficking includes buying, selling, or transporting humans for exploitation such as forced labour or prostitution.
· Begar, a form of unpaid labour imposed by landlords or authorities, is constitutionally banned.
· Even if someone "agrees" to work for extremely low wages due to poverty, it may still be considered forced labour as per Supreme Court rulings (as highlighted in NCERT Polity texts).
· The State is empowered to impose compulsory service for public purposes, but without any discrimination.
Additional Information
· Article 24 goes beyond trafficking and bans child labour in any factory, mine, or hazardous occupation for children below 14 years.
· These Right complements other protections like:
· Article 21 (Right to Life and Dignity)
· Article 39[e] and [f] of Directive Principles, which require the State to protect workers, children, and vulnerable groups.
· India has further strengthened protections through laws such as:
· Bonded Labour System (Abolition) Act, 1976
· Child Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Amendment Act, 2016
· Immoral Trafficking Prevention Act (ITPA)
· These constitutional and legal measures align with India’s obligations under international conventions against trafficking and forced labour.