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| What is Article 23 of Indian constitution |
Article 23 of the Indian Constitution protects individuals against exploitation, especially in the form of human trafficking and forced labor.
📜 Text of Article 23 (Simplified)
(1) Human trafficking, begar (forced labor), and other similar forms of forced labor are prohibited.
(2) The State can make laws to punish those who force others into such labor.
✅ Key Terms Explained
1. Human Trafficking
Selling or buying humans for prostitution, slavery, or other exploitative purposes.
2. Begar
Work or service taken from someone without payment, often against their will. It was common during British rule when poor people were forced to work without wages.
3. Other Forms of Forced Labour
Any work where a person is compelled to work under threat, without fair wages, or not allowed to leave.
⚖️ Scope of Article 23
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Applies to both State and private individuals.
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Even private persons cannot exploit others.
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It covers all people in India, citizens or foreigners.
🛡️ Rights Under Article 23
| Protection | Means |
|---|---|
| Right against human trafficking | No one can be sold or bought for immoral purposes. |
| Right against begar (forced labour) | No one can be forced to work without wages or against their will. |
| Right to be protected by the State | Government can make laws to stop and punish these activities. |
🏛️ Related Laws
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Immoral Traffic (Prevention) Act, 1956 – to stop trafficking in women and girls.
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Bonded Labour System (Abolition) Act, 1976 – to end bonded or forced labor.
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Child Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Act, 1986 – to stop child labor.
🧠 Landmark Case:
People’s Union for Democratic Rights v. Union of India (1982)
The Supreme Court ruled that non-payment of minimum wages amounts to forced labour and is a violation of Article 23.
📌 Summary
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Protects against | Human trafficking, begar, forced labour |
| Applies to | Everyone (citizens and non-citizens) |
| Applies against | Both government and private individuals |
| State powers | Can make laws to punish such acts |
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