Article 23 prohibits trafficking in human beings, forced labor, and similar forms of labor exploitation.
➤ Prohibited Acts:
- Selling and buying of people (men, women, and children).
- Immoral trafficking of women and children, including prostitution.
- Devadasi practice and slavery.
- Forced labor, also known as "begar," where individuals are made to work without pay.
➤ Laws Implementing the Prohibition:
- Immoral Traffic (Prevention) Act, 1956: Punishes acts related to trafficking.
- Bonded Labour System (Abolition) Act, 1976: Abolishes bonded labor.
- Minimum Wages Act, 1948: Ensures minimum wage for workers.
- Contract Labour Act, 1970: Regulates the employment of contract labor.
- Equal Remuneration Act, 1976: Ensures equal pay for equal work.
➤ Scope:
- The prohibition applies to both citizens and non-citizens.
- It protects individuals against exploitation by both the State and private individuals.
➤ Definition of "Force":
- Physical or legal compulsion.
- Economic coercion, such as paying less than the minimum wage.
➤ Exceptions:
- The State may require compulsory service for public purposes, such as military or social service.
- However, the State cannot discriminate based on religion, race, caste, or class in imposing such service.