BONDED LABOR IN CAR WORKSHOPS OF RAWALPINDI, PUNJAB, PAKISTAN

Abstract

This study focuses on bonded labor in car workshops in the district of Rawalpindi, Punjab, Pakistan. It aims to examine explicit and implicit violence against children, determine the reasons behind bonded labor, and highlight the lived experiences and problems faced by children working in car workshops. Although bonded labor in Pakistan has received some attention, it remains a pervasive social issue. The primary objective of this study is to draw attention to bonded child labor in Pakistan. Data collection took place at two significant sites: Sultan da Khu and Khada Market, which are considered hubs for car spare parts and car workshops. The researchers employed face-to-face interviews and covert observations for data collection. The findings suggest that children face various forms of violence and problems. Additionally, the reasons behind their bonded labor include family issues such as debt, poverty, and deprivation. The overall inference from the data is that despite the efforts of non-state and state actors and existing laws, bonded child labor remains prevalent in society. The government should enforce laws and regulations more effectively to eliminate child-bonded labor in Pakistan.

Keywords; Bonded Labor, Child labor, Debt bondage, Peonage, Modern day slavery, car workshops