Contract labour system in India: exploitation, absorption, and the need for reform.

Abstract: The contract labour system is widely used in India, but it has also created concerns about worker exploitation, job insecurity, low wages, and limited social security. This research examines the working conditions of contract labourers and the legal measures available to protect their rights. It also studies the issue of absorption of contract workers into permanent employment and identifies gaps in the existing legal framework. The study highlights the need for effective implementation of labour laws, better protection of workers' rights, and suitable reforms to ensure fair and secure employment. The research is based mainly on secondary sources such as labour laws, government reports, books, articles, and research papers. Keywords: Contract Labour, Labour Rights, Exploitation, Absorption, Regularisation, Contractors, Principal Employer, Labour Law, Social Security, Labour Reforms.