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A human trafficking trial has commenced in Switzerland against four members of the billionaire Hinduja family, who stand accused of exploiting household staff at their villa on Lake Geneva. The trial unfolds amid allegations of passport confiscation, long working hours, and meager pay for the staff, prompting scrutiny and demands for justice.
According to reports, the Hinduja family allegedly confiscated the passports of their household staff, restricting their freedom of movement and requiring permission to leave the premises. Shockingly, the staff was reportedly paid as little as $8 for 15-18 hours of work, leading to accusations of exploitation and mistreatment.
Prosecutor Yves Bertossa highlighted the stark contrast between the staff’s wages and the family’s lavish spending, pointing out that they spent more on their pet dog than on compensating a member of their staff. The trial proceedings revealed budget documents indicating significant expenses for the family’s pet compared to the staff’s meager earnings.
The prosecutors are pushing for substantial penalties, including years-long sentences for the accused family members—Prakash Hinduja, Kamal Hinduja, Ajay Hinduja, and Namrata Hinduja. Additionally, they are demanding financial compensation, with a proposed court cost of 1 million Swiss francs and a compensation fund of 3.5 million francs for the staff.
In response to the allegations, the Hindujas’ lawyer has dismissed the claims, stating that the family was not directly involved in the hiring or management of the household staff. The defense argues that the staff’s living expenses were covered, suggesting that their overall compensation should be considered beyond mere cash payments.
The trial has garnered significant attention due to the high-profile nature of the Hinduja family, known for their vast wealth and diverse business interests spanning shipping, banking, media, and real estate. With an estimated net worth of $20 billion, the family’s legal battle underscores broader concerns about labor rights, exploitation, and accountability within affluent households and across industries.
Sources By Agencies
