At just 19 years old, Sumit* has already lived a lifetime. Born into a marginalized community in India, Sumit began working at the age of 14 to support his struggling family. But his pursuit of honest work took a dark turn when he was trapped in bonded labor at an ice factory – working 19-hour days, isolated, beaten, and denied his wages for nearly three years.
During the chaos of the COVID-19 pandemic, Sumit had been lured to work at an ice factory owned by Mahendar. Promised a monthly salary of about $175, Sumit was instead given only dry rations and an advance of $35. From 7:00 AM to 2:00 AM, Sumit worked alone in the factory, producing ice and ice cream under oppressive heat. His request for fair wages was repeatedly denied and when he attempted to escape, Mahendar assaulted him, dragging him back and even threatening Sumit’s family. Sumit’s family was already in distress, with an ill father who relied on Sumit’s earnings to pay his mounting medical bills.
In October 2024, Justice Hub investigators launched a careful operation to rescue Sumit, building trust to gather detailed evidence of his exploitation, and in December Sumit was rescued with the support of government officials.
Sumit was awarded approximately $937 in back wages—a significant move toward justice and healing. During his time in captivity, Sumit had learned pottery from a local artisan, and after his rescue he turned this skill into a new beginning. He built his own firing chamber to craft clay cups and bricks and even established relationships with vendors that allowed him to sell his products independently. His hands – once used to haul ice in silence – now shape clay into vessels of purpose and hope.
Sumit’s journey is not just his own. It is a symbol of what’s possible through Justice Hubs that help communities stand up against exploitation. It is a symbol of what’s possible when justice prevails and communities experience sustainable transformation.
*All names changed to protect identities.
