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Exploitation Case of Hinduja Family: Worker Abuse and Legal Ramifications
Explore the exploitation case involving the Hinduja Family, highlighting worker abuse issues and the legal consequences they face. Learn about the ramifications and impact of this controversial incident.
Worker Exploitation Case of Hinduja Family
The Hinduja family, a prominent business family, was found guilty by a Swiss court of exploiting their workers. The family had seized their workers’ passports, imposed restrictions on their movements, and made them work long hours.
Charges and Court Verdict
The prosecutors accused the family of creating a “climate of fear” for their workers, who were forced to work up to 18 hours a day with minimal to no holidays. The court dismissed the human trafficking charges against the family members but sentenced them to between four to four and a half years in prison for worker exploitation.
Financial and Legal Ramifications
The workers, mostly illiterate Indians, were paid in Indian rupees instead of Swiss francs and were deprived of proper living conditions and benefits. The family’s assets, including jewelry, were seized by Swiss authorities. The family’s net worth is estimated to be around 18.6 billion euros.
Despite the settlement with the plaintiffs, the family still faces a pending tax case in Switzerland. The family has a history of legal issues, with a previous conviction in 2007 and ongoing cases.