Rajasthan, Telangana, Bihar Lead Child Labour Rescue

RAJASTHAN, TELANGANA, BIHAR LEAD CHILD LABOUR RESCUE OPERATIONS

Why in the News?

  • New report: Rajasthan, Telangana, and Bihar top the list of child labour rescue operations in 2024-25.
  • Widespread issue: 53,651 children rescued nationwide, with 90% in the worst forms of child labour.
  • Enforcement gaps: Despite high rescue numbers, states like UP and MP show fewer arrests.

RAJASTHAN, TELANGANA, BIHAR LEAD CHILD LABOUR RESCUE OPERATIONS

Key Findings of the Child Protection Report

  • High rescues: Telangana (11,063), Bihar (3,974), Rajasthan (3,847), UP (3,804), Delhi (2,588).
  • Major arrests: 5,809 arrests made, 85% linked to child labour.
  • Dangerous sectors: Children found in spas, massage parlours, orchestras, exposed to sexual exploitation.
  • Legal action: 38,388 FIRs filed under the campaign led by Just Rights for Children (JRC).

Recommendations and Next Steps

  • National Mission: Launch a National Mission to End Child Labour with proper funding and comprehensive child labour policies.
  • District Task Forces: Form district-level task forces for stronger action and implementation of child labour policies.
  • Rehabilitation: Establish Child Labour Rehabilitation Fund and comprehensive rehabilitation policies.
  • Legal deterrent: Strengthen prosecution to create fear of law and deter offenders.

CHILD LABOUR IN INDIA

● Legal framework: Governed by the Child Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Act, 1986.

● ILO Conventions: India ratified ILO Convention 182 (worst forms) and 138 (minimum age).

● Constitutional provisions: Article 24 prohibits child labour; Article 39(e & f) ensures child welfare.

● Current challenges: Gaps in implementation, enforcement, and rehabilitation of rescued children.

● Recent trends: Increased focus on education, vocational training, and legal action for child welfare.