Right against Exploitation (Articles 23–24)
Article 23 prohibits traffic in human beings, beggar (forced labor), and other similar forms of forced labor. Article 24 prohibits the employment of children below the age of 14 years in factories, mines, or other hazardous occupations.
The Right against Exploitation protects vulnerable individuals from being exploited. It prohibits human trafficking, forced labor (bonded labor), and child labor in hazardous industries. These provisions recognize that true freedom is impossible without protection from economic and social exploitation.
Landmark Supreme Court Cases
People's Union for Democratic Rights v. Union of India
1982The Supreme Court held that non-payment of minimum wages to construction workers constitutes forced labor under Article 23.
Impact: Broad interpretation of 'forced labor' to include situations where workers are paid less than minimum wage.