Obligation of state as model employer against worker exploitation

The State, when acting in its capacity as an employer, is bound by a heightened constitutional obligation to function as a model employer with high probity, complete candour, and uncompromising fairness. This model employer doctrine mandates that the government bears a social responsibility to treat its workforce in a manner that preserves human dignity and safeguards employees from systemic exploitation. The State cannot be permitted to exploit its citizens or take unconscionable advantage of their vulnerable position, financial helplessness, or unequal bargaining power. Executive authorities are strictly required to exercise heightened caution and adhere to the constitutional mandate of fairness, from which no exception or deviation can be countenanced under any administrative pretext. (Bhola Nath v. The State of Jharkhand | 2026 INSC 99)