The handmade carpet industry has a deep and sometimes troubled history when it comes to labour practices. At Deepak Carpets, we take an unequivocal stand: forced labour and human trafficking have no place in our operations, our supply chain, or our industry. This article details our comprehensive policy framework designed to prevent, detect, and address these issues.
Zero Tolerance for Forced Labour
Deepak Carpets maintains a strict zero-tolerance policy against any form of forced, bonded, or compulsory labour. No worker shall be required to work under threat, coercion, or penalty. This applies to every facility we operate in Bhadohi and extends to every subcontractor and weaving unit in our supply chain.
Key commitments include:
- Voluntary Employment: All workers are employed voluntarily. No worker is held against their will or subjected to debt bondage of any kind.
- Freedom of Movement: Workers retain their personal identification documents at all times. The company never confiscates passports, identity cards, or any personal papers.
- Right to Leave: Every worker has the unrestricted right to terminate their employment with reasonable notice, without penalty or retaliation.
Prevention of Human Trafficking
Human trafficking is a grave violation of human rights, and the handmade carpet sector must remain vigilant. Deepak Carpets has implemented robust safeguards:
- Worker Verification: Age and identity verification for all workers using government-issued documentation to prevent trafficking of minors or undocumented individuals.
- Supply Chain Auditing: Regular, unannounced audits of subcontracted weaving units to verify labour conditions and identify potential risks.
- Recruitment Integrity: No worker is required to pay recruitment fees. We prohibit labour brokers who charge workers for job placement.
Subcontractor & Supplier Accountability
Our responsibility does not end at our factory gates. Every subcontractor and weaving unit that produces carpets under the Deepak Carpets name is contractually bound to uphold these same standards. Failure to comply results in immediate corrective action, and persistent violations lead to termination of the business relationship.
Worker Awareness & Reporting
We conduct regular training sessions for workers and supervisors on recognising signs of forced labour and trafficking. Workers have access to confidential reporting channels to flag concerns without fear of retaliation. All reports are investigated thoroughly, and protective measures are taken immediately where needed.
International Standards & Compliance
This policy aligns with the ILO Forced Labour Convention, the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights, and applicable Indian labour laws. As authorised by Anup Savita, Partner, Deepak Carpets is committed to continuous improvement and regular policy reviews to stay ahead of emerging risks.
Every carpet we produce should be a source of pride — for the artisan who made it, for the company that nurtured it, and for the customer who owns it. That pride can only exist when every hand involved works freely and with dignity.