Date:29/07/2007 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2007/07/29/stories/2007072951060300.htm

Tamil Nadu

Freed bonded labourers float society

M. Balaganessin

PUDUKOTTAI: A total of 38 villagers of Poruvaai and Kalthatchampatti near Viralimalai who had been relieved of the clutches of bonded labour years ago, have joined together to form ‘Pudukottai District Freed Bonded Labourers’ Rehabilitation Cooperative Society,’ to eke out a decent livelihood.

Collector S. J. Chiru initiated special steps for their rehabilitation, taking advantage of the priority for allotment of minor quarries to the bonded labourers.

According to official sources, the district accounted for 150 freed bonded labourers. This is the first society being floated in the district with a strength of 38 members, including nine women. A five-member ad-hoc board, led by S. Periyasamy, has been constituted for running the society, which will be inaugurated shortly, according to Regional Joint Registrar of Cooperative Societies, R. M. Jayam Pandian.