T.N. Women’s Commission seeks inquiry report on death of pregnant woman, infant in Kancheepuram

The Tamil Nadu State Commission for Women (TNSCW) ordered an inquiry into the death of the 35-year-old tribal woman, who worked as a bonded labourer in Kancheepuram, and her newborn.Taking suo moto cognisance of the incident based on media reports, the commission directed the Revenue Divisional Officer (RDO) to conduct the inquiry under the provisions of the Bonded Labour System (Abolition) Act. The commission has asked the RDO to examine all circumstances surrounding the employment conditions, the advance payment arrangement, possible coercion, and any violations of labour and human rights laws.The victim and her husband had been staying and working at a timber logging site for the past six months as the couple had borrowed ₹20,000 from the owner of the unit. When the victim developed labour pain on Tuesday, they had requested permission to take her to a hospital. But the owner had allegedly denied permission.In its communication dated September 9, the commission noted that appropriate measures should be taken to ensure comprehensive rehabilitation and support for the deceased woman’s family.The commission also stated that if the inquiry establishes elements of bonded labour, forced labour, exploitation, negligence, or any other cognisable offence, stringent criminal action must be initiated. Published - September 10, 2026 07:15 pm IST