Y Merina Chishi
The arrest of a Naga lady in Dimapur recently on alleged charges of child abuse has set a strong benchmark on issues related to rights in Nagaland. Child abuse particularly in domestic households is highly prevalent in Naga society. It is also one of the most neglected social issues. Most children are brought from rural and remote areas by guardians, parents, and middlemen with the promise of being school educated. Unfortunately, most employers think that in doing so, they are doing the child and family a favour. This false perception has left many children wounded and scarred.
This case is not the first reported case though. Several cases of child abuse have emerged even in the past. Rape, torture, neglect of basic human rights and other offences are heard from every nook and corner of the State. The tragedy, however, is that most cases are ignored, or generally hushed up especially in cases involving high profile persons/families. It is a glaring reality happening under our nose but most don't pay heed.
Use of children as domestic helpers is common in practice in many households in Nagaland. There are few non government organisations working for the cause of child rights. But most NGO workers claim that their work becomes limited to creating awareness as they are unable to enter homes because of resistance from employers.
The blame cannot be put entirely on the employers though. Many parents and guardians pledge their children in return for monetary benefits. But most of them are not aware that in doing so, they are liable to punishment under the legal system. The Children (Pledging of Labour Act), 1993 declared any agreement by a parent or guardian to pledge the labour of a child below 15 years of age for payment or other benefit other than reasonable wages is illegal and void. The Act also provides punishment for such parents and guardians as well as those who employ the child whose labour is pledged.
It is quite understandable that some parents who cannot afford to send their children to school are left with no option. But when under the Right to Education, every child has the right to free and compulsory education, the fact that these children are still being sent elsewhere to study suggests that something in the system is amiss. Therefore, the issue must be addressed from the grassroot and work its way up the demand chain. The tribal Unions/Organisations who take responsibility for the welfare of the children should also monitor their well-being from time to time. This is an issue that needs involvement of the society at large. Blaming each other will not solve the problem.
Comments can be sent to merinachishi@gmail.com
