Four members of the UK's wealthiest family, the Hindujas, are facing trial in Switzerland on charges of human trafficking and exploitation. Worth an estimated £37 billion ($39 billion), the BBC reported that the family is accused of mistreating servants imported from India to manage their household in Geneva's affluent Cologny neighborhood. 

Allegations include confiscating passports, paying as little as £7 ($8) for long working hours, and restricting freedom of movement. 

While a financial settlement was recently reached for exploitation, they continue to deny trafficking charges, despite Geneva prosecutor Yves Bertossa citing differences in treatment between servants and the family's expenditures on their dog.

Geneva, known for its global organizations and wealth, has faced previous scandals involving servant abuse, such as Hannibal Gaddafi's case in 2008 and recent Filipino workers' claims against UN missions.

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The Hindujas' Defense

The Hinduja family justified their low wages by pointing out that they also provided accommodations and meals to their servants. They argue that activities involving the family's children should not be considered work hours. 

Despite some former servants testifying positively about their treatment, there are serious accusations of passport confiscation and restrictions on movement, which could be legally defined as human trafficking under Swiss law. 

Prosecutor Bertossa is pushing for prison sentences and massive financial penalties, drawing attention to similar cases in Geneva involving abuse among wealthy households.

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