Mr. Baghambar Pattanaik in his complaint to the Commission alleged that under the custom of 'bartan', the upper caste families in District Puri of Orissa, give an advance of a little quantity of paddy for each married male in a village at a particular time of the year and in return, that person called 'sewak' has to render services to all the members of the family throughout the year without any remuneration.
Taking serious view of the issue, the Commission in its open court hearing of all the concerned, directed the State authorities that they register an FIR against those who are responsible for this illegal practice which is a manifestation of bonded labour; investigate the matter and initiate a legal action. The Commission found the inquiry report furnished by the Collector of Puri on the issue factually incorrect that no 'bartan' system existed in the district.
The Commission also asked the State authorities to consider appropriate action against the officers who have failed to stop this illegal practice. During the hearing, complainant, the Collector of Puri and the Commissioner, Panchayati Raj were present before the Commission.