The Power of a Release Certificate

In India, freedom is written into law, sometimes on a single sheet of paper. For survivors, that paper is everything: proof they are free, protection that lasts, and the beginning of peace. Appa Rao was trapped in bonded labour for 22 years before he was brought to freedom. 

Perpetrators of bonded labour often inflate debts with manipulated interest rates to keep victims trapped for months, years or even generations. The Release Certificate, issued under India’s Bonded Labor System (Abolition) Act of 1976, is signed and sealed by a Sub-Divisional Magistrate or Revenue Divisional Officer – recognising survivors like Appa Rao as free from bondage and falsified debts.  

For many, a Release Certificate is often the first official document identifying them as a citizen of India – some survivors may not have a birth certificate or photo ID.  

These certificates typically include: 

- Demographic details (name, native village, age)
- Information on the perpetrator
- Address where the victim was rescued from and any physical challenges faced by the victim (which is used to process extra provisions in their rehabilitation package). 

Toward the bottom of the certificate, the name of the magistrate authorised to release victims of bonded labour is mentioned with their signature and seal of the government. The certificate is always dated. 

International Justice Mission and our partners across India advocate with officials to issue these certificates quickly – as physical proof of an extinguished debt. In newer areas, this can take weeks. In trained regions, survivors can receive their Release Certificate within 24 hours.  

Receiving this sheet of paper is just the beginning of survivors like Appa Rao being able to find freedom in the little (and big) things. Through the certificate, survivors can:

- Access a ration card that provides families with free rice and other food
- Apply for an electoral card to vote in elections
- Apply for government programs related to free housing or education for children. 

Release Certificates also serve as vital evidence during the judicial process. The usage of the certificates during a court case recognises the presence of bonded labour in a case and significantly increases the probability of a suspect being convicted – a key element of securing long-term justice.  

“To witness a victim receive a Release Certificate amidst the often chaotic and emotional rescue process is to witness a profound act of justice. A Release Certificate is not just a piece of paper, it is a powerful testament that their years of suffering and bondage has been acknowledged, their exploitative debt is forgiven, their freedom is now protected by the law and their life matters. In that moment, you see more than just a victim, you see dignity being restored, and the quiet, unwavering force of public justice system taking root," one of IJM’s staff shared.