KIIT Law School Hosts Inspiring Event to Raise Awareness on Bonded Labour
In a powerful initiative to shed light on the persistent issue of bonded labour, the KIIT Centre for Labour and Employment Studies and the KIIT Centre for Social Action, in collaboration with the International Justice Mission (IJM), organized “United for Freedom: A Film Festival on Bonded Labour” on 5th February 2025 at 3:30 P.M. in LH 1, KIIT Law School. This impactful event was a key part of the Bonded Labour Abolition Week Celebration, aiming to foster awareness and commitment toward eradicating this practice also referred to as the modern slavery. Each year 9th February is observed as the Bonded Labour System Abolition Day.
A Call for Awareness and Action
Despite remarkable progress in human rights, bonded labour continues to be a harsh reality, violating fundamental rights and impeding social justice and equality. Through this film festival, students and participants engaged with a compelling documentary that underscored the severity of the issue, igniting meaningful discussions on the necessary steps toward its eradication.
The event commenced with a welcome address, setting the stage for thought-provoking deliberations.
Insights from Esteemed Speakers
Prof. (Dr.) Rose Varghese, Director, KIIT School of Law, emphasized the importance of awareness about bonded labour, urging law students to be responsible citizens and to contribute toward this noble cause.
Prof. (Dr.) N.L. Mitra, Professor Emeritus, KIIT School of Law, shared his observations on the persisting miseries of bonded labour, highlighting the paradox of its existence despite India being a welfare state.
Prof. (Dr.) Rajan Varghese, Director of Research and Innovation, KIIT School of Law, presented case studies of bonded labour across India, underlining the urgent need for rescue and rehabilitation efforts.
The Chief Guest, Ms. Priya Abraham, Zonal Head, Strategic Communications, International Justice Mission(IJM), delivered a compelling address on the exploitation faced by bonded and child labourers and the contribution of IJM toward their rescue. She revealed that in 2023-24, IJM successfully rescued 155 bonded laborers in Odisha, reinforcing the significance of sustained efforts in combating this issue.
A Cinematic Lens on Bonded Labour
As part of the festival, the film “Kavi” was screened, offering students a harrowing yet insightful perspective on the struggles of bonded labourers. The film served as an eye-opener, leaving the audience deeply moved and motivated to be part of the solution.
Organizing Team
The successful execution of the event was made possible by the dedicated efforts of:
Faculty Coordinators:
- Dr. Bibhu Kaibalya Manik
- Dr. Binita Behera
Organizing Committee Members:
- Prof. (Dr.) Sanghamitra Pattanik
- Ms. Pratikshya Priyadarshini
Student Organizing Members:
- Ayush Kishore, Prarthana Mohanty, Lipsita Bastia, Pratisruti Parida, Pratyasa Mishra, Aishwarya Singh, Meghana Mohapatra, Ambika Swain, Ashadip Sarangi, Gaurab Ranjan Mohanty, Swapnajeet Pattnaik, Silpa Mishra, Sohum Dev, Omel Lisa Paul, Ankita Satapathy, Anuska Priyadarsini Behera, Akankshya Pradhan, Anwesha Panda, Apurba Sarangi
Members from International Justice Mission
- Mr. Bikash Ranjan Patra, Head, State Government Relations
- Ms. Saira Achsah Sunny, Lead, State Government and Police Relations
- Mr. Ronald Nanda, Consultant India Contract Work(South Asia)
A Step Towards Change
The “United for Freedom: A Film Festival on Bonded Labour” was more than just an event—it was a catalyst for change, inspiring students and participants to advocate for the rights of bonded labourers and work towards a more just society. The discussions, insights, and the film screening collectively strengthened the commitment toward eradicating bonded labour and ensuring dignity and freedom for all.
