Compulsory service by MBBS students under a bond doesn’t amount to forced labour, rules Karnataka HC

What Happened

The Karnataka High Court ruled that five-year compulsory service bonds for MBBS students at ESIC Medical College do not constitute forced labour. The division bench overturned a previous single-judge order, holding that service bonds are voluntary contracts. ESIC can require service as consideration for subsidized education. Students may leave by paying agreed amounts. The court emphasized ESIC funded college operations and students cannot claim education benefits without obligations.

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