Question

Describe the condition of indentured labour that migrated from India during the nineteenth century.

Answer 1

Hint: After the abolition of slavery, the system of indentured labour was implemented. During this system, millions of Indians were transported to different European states. The system was expanded in British colonies and followed till the late 1920s.

Complete answer:
Indruited labour were recruited and transported to other parts of the world for the production of cotton, tea, sugar and rail constructions. More than 2 million Indians were transported to Guyana, Uganda, Fiji, Kenya, Trinidad and South Africa. The conditions of the workers were very bad and the wages were extremely low.
-These workers had no choice but to leave and go abroad.
-They were presented before the magistrate before they left to give proof that they are doing this voluntarily.
-The workers signed the contract of 5 years to work abroad. They received salaries of around 8 rupees per month.
-Many Indians were illiterate. They could not understand what was written in the contract and signed them which resulted in betrayal and bad faith.
-Many were misled by the Britishers. They were deported without their consent and knowledge.
-The conditions of the ships in which they travel were extremely poor. There was a 17% death rate due to diseases.
-There were long working hours. Children when turned 5 were expected to work with their parents.

Note: Indians who tried to escape were recaptured and imprisoned. After movements by Gandhi, the system was finally abolished in 1917.