Dhubri minor girls rescue has reached a significant milestone after seven rescued minor girls were safely brought back to Assam’s Dhubri district following their stay at a government-run children’s home in Bihar. Their return comes months after a major rescue operation exposed alleged bonded labour, physical violence, and sexual abuse at a brick kiln in Bihar’s Saharsa district, sparking widespread concern over the exploitation of migrant workers and children.
Dhubri minor girls rescue marks a crucial development
The seven girls were among a larger group of 47 labourers, including women and children, who had travelled from Dhubri to Bihar several months ago in search of employment at the Star Marka brick kiln in Saharsa district. Authorities had initially rescued the workers in April after serious allegations emerged regarding forced labour, unpaid wages, violence, and abuse.
While most of the labourers were immediately repatriated to Assam after the rescue operation, the seven minor girls remained in a government children’s home in Bihar under official protection as legal procedures and child welfare protocols were completed. Their return to Dhubri now marks another important step in the rehabilitation process.
Allegations that triggered the rescue operation
The case gained national attention after rescued labourers narrated disturbing accounts of exploitation inside the brick kiln. According to survivors, they were forced to work without receiving wages and allegedly faced repeated physical assaults, intimidation, and inhuman living conditions.
Several labourers claimed they were denied proper food, adequate shelter, and basic medical care. One survivor alleged that his wife suffered a gunshot injury during an attempt to escape from the kiln premises. These allegations prompted authorities to launch a detailed investigation into the functioning of the brick kiln and those responsible.
The kiln owner, identified as Md. Owais Qarni, also known as Chunna Mukhia, was arrested following the rescue operation, while investigations into various allegations continue.
Protection of the rescued minor girls
Child welfare authorities ensured safe custody
After the rescue, officials decided that the seven girls should remain under the supervision of Bihar’s child protection authorities until all mandatory legal formalities were completed. They were accommodated in a government-run children’s home in Saharsa to ensure their safety and provide appropriate care.
Authorities coordinated with child welfare committees, district administrations, and Assam officials before facilitating their return to Dhubri. Their repatriation reflects the importance of following child protection procedures in cases involving minors rescued from suspected trafficking or labour exploitation.
Investigation into abuse allegations continues
The rescued labourers have levelled several serious allegations, including claims that some minor girls were sexually exploited while working at the brick kiln. Investigating agencies are examining these allegations, although authorities have stated that the claims remain under investigation.
Officials are collecting witness statements and other evidence as part of the ongoing inquiry. The case is expected to involve multiple legal provisions relating to bonded labour, child protection, and other criminal offences if sufficient evidence is established.
Concerns over migrant worker safety
The incident has once again highlighted the vulnerability of migrant workers from economically weaker regions who travel outside their home states in search of employment. Labour rights activists have repeatedly called for stricter monitoring of recruitment practices and improved coordination between states to prevent exploitation.
The case has also renewed discussions on strengthening labour inspections, ensuring timely wage payments, and protecting women and children working in informal sectors such as brick kilns.
Officials have indicated that rehabilitation measures are being provided to the rescued workers while legal proceedings against the accused continue.
Families welcome the girls back home
The return of the seven girls has brought relief to their families in Dhubri after months of uncertainty. Local authorities are expected to continue monitoring their welfare and facilitate rehabilitation through appropriate government support mechanisms.
The incident serves as a reminder of the need for stronger safeguards for migrant labourers, especially minors, who remain vulnerable to trafficking, forced labour, and abuse. As investigations progress, authorities are expected to pursue accountability while ensuring the rescued survivors receive the protection, care, and rehabilitation they need to rebuild their lives.
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