Tue Aug 05 14:41:20 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a summary and a news article based on the provided text:

**Summary:**

Authorities in Prakasam district, Andhra Pradesh, rescued nearly 40 bonded laborers, including minors, from two shrimp factories. The laborers, originating from Odisha and Chhattisgarh, were being exploited with poor living conditions, food, and no pay. The District Collector provided them with relief certificates and is arranging for their safe return home with due compensation. The rescue was prompted by information from the Bastar District Collector in Chhattisgarh. A case has been registered against the shrimp factories under multiple labor laws, including the Bonded Labour System (Abolition) Act.

**News Article:**

**40 Bonded Laborers Rescued from Shrimp Factories in Andhra Pradesh**

**ONGOLE, Andhra Pradesh, August 5, 2025** – Nearly 40 individuals, including minors, were rescued from exploitative working conditions at two shrimp factories in the Tanguturu mandal of Prakasam district, Andhra Pradesh, authorities announced today. The rescued workers, comprising 17 from Odisha and 23 from Chhattisgarh, were found to be working as bonded laborers.

Prakasam District Collector A. Thameem Ansaria presented relief certificates to the victims at a ceremony held at her camp office in Ongole on Tuesday. She has directed relevant departments to ensure the laborers receive rightful compensation for their period of service and organized special transport to facilitate their return to their native places.

The rescue operation was initiated following information received from the Bastar District Collector in Chhattisgarh, revealing the presence of bonded labor within the shrimp factories. Working in conjunction with voluntary organizations, Prakasam district officials successfully located and freed the victims on Monday.

Ongole Revenue Divisional Officer (RDO) K. Lakshmi Prasanna stated that the laborers were coerced into bonded labor by a middleman, subjected to substandard living conditions, denied adequate food, and deprived of wages.

“These individuals were essentially trapped,” said RDO Lakshmi Prasanna. “They were working under duress without any of the basic necessities or financial compensation they were entitled to. We have registered a case against the two shrimp factories under the Bonded Labour System (Abolition) Act, Child Labour (Prohibition) Act, and Minimum Wages Acts. We will ensure those responsible are held accountable.”

A special bus has been arranged to transport the rescued laborers back to their respective homes, accompanied by officials from Bastar district. Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) Project Director S. Suvarna and labor officials also participated in the rescue and relief efforts. The incident highlights the continued prevalence of bonded labor in certain sectors and the importance of vigilance and inter-state cooperation in combating this illegal practice.

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