Introduction
In order to ensure social justice and human rights, it is crucial to uphold the Right Against Exploitation, which is outlined in Articles 23 and 24 of the Indian Constitution. These articles serve as a tribute to the foresight of the Constitution’s founders, who saw the importance of safeguarding society’s most defenceless members from exploitation and abuse. We shall examine the contents of Articles 23 and 24 in this essay, as well as their historical background and importance for safeguarding social justice and human dignity.
Article 23: Prohibition of Forced Labour and Trafficking of Human Beings
The Indian Constitution‘s Article 23 stipulates that “Traffic in human beings and begar and other similar forms of forced labour are prohibited, and any contravention of this provision shall be an offence punishable in accordance with law.”
This article demonstrates the Indian Constitution’s commitment to ending acts that violate people’s basic rights and exploit them. The outright ban on forced labour and human trafficking is a powerful protest against the lowering of human dignity. The phrase “begar” describes a system where people are required to work for free, frequently in appalling conditions.
The colonial era, when British colonial authorities subjected Indians to different sorts of forced labour and exploitative practises, can be used to contextualise Article 23’s historical development. The authors of the Indian Constitution were adamant about removing these restraints and guaranteeing that no person in an independent India would experience such humiliations.
Article 24: Children Are Not Allowed to Work in Factories, etc.
Article 24 supports the goals of Article 23 by outlawing the use of children in mines, factories, or any other dangerous occupations. The document states, “No child below the age of fourteen years shall be employed to work in any factory or mine or engaged in any other hazardous employment.”
This clause emphasises how crucial it is to protect children’s welfare and ensure their futures. Children must be shielded from the dangers of child labour since they are frequently helpless and unable to speak up for themselves. Thus, Article 24 demonstrates a dedication to the healthy growth of the country’s next generation.
Relevance and Application
The Right Against Exploitation, which is protected by Articles 23 and 24, is more than just a token; it has practical repercussions for India’s legal system and social structure. The following points will help you understand the importance of these articles:
Human Dignity: The safeguarding of human dignity is at the heart of Articles 23 and 24. These articles emphasise the intrinsic value of every person, regardless of their social or economic status, by outlawing behaviours that exploit people.
Social Justice: These articles are essential to understanding social justice in its broadest sense. They eliminate exploitative institutions that disproportionately harm marginalised and underprivileged populations in order to correct historical imbalances.
Child Welfare: Article 24 in particular is concerned with protecting kids from dangerous work. For their development, education, and general wellbeing, this is crucial.
Legal Framework: The articles 23 and 24 have given us a strong legal foundation on which to confront issues like child labour, forced labour, and human trafficking. To guarantee the execution of these fundamental principles, numerous legislation and regulations have been passed.
Obstacles and Progress
Although the Right Against Exploitation is a fundamental component of the Indian Constitution, obstacles still stand in the way of its complete and efficient implementation. Particularly in the unorganised and informal sectors, human trafficking, forced labour, and child labour remain serious problems. By passing laws, launching awareness campaigns, and launching rescue and rehabilitation operations, the government and civil society organisations are aggressively tackling these problems.
Conclusion
The Indian Constitution’s Articles 23 and 24 are moral requirements as well as legal clauses. They represent a dedication to social justice and human dignity, working to right past wrongs and safeguarding society’s most defenceless citizens. The realisation of a more just and equitable society is dependent on the unwavering efforts of individuals, groups, and the government in defending these fundamental rights, despite the fact that difficulties still exist. In addition to being a legal idea, the Right Against Exploitation is also a moral and social requirement for a better India.
