Dignitaries and others take pledge against child labour in Kohima on June 12. (Morung Photo)
Calls for united efforts for to make state child labour free
Our Correspondent
Kohima | June 12
Joining the rest of the world in observing World Day Against Child Labour, the state labour department today urged all establishments, families, and the general public to strictly comply with the provisions of the Child and Adolescent Labour (Prohibition & Regulation) Act, 1986 and report any violations to the appropriate authorities.
In a programme held here at Central Plaza Food Court (Multi Level Car Parking Complex), the department stated that ‘employing child labour is a crime’ and called for united efforts to make Nagaland a child labour free-state.
The gathering led by Kohima deputy commissioner took a pledge to stand against child labour in all its forms and also “I will never employ a child in my home, workplace or anywhere else. I will raise my voice against the exploitation of children.”
Pledging to inform the authorities if came across any child being forced to work, the gathering also vowed to promote education for every child and help build a child-friendly society.
“Let us protect children, not employ them. Together, we can stop child labour,” the pledge stated.
Addressing the gathering, Kohima DC B. Henok Buchem, stated that the district administration, police, and all enforcement agencies are fully prepared to take action against any activity of child labour and urged everyone to remain vigilant.
He expressed concern over the rising incidents of atrocities and abuse against women and children, noting that such acts were previously unheard of and not part of Naga society's values.
“Unfortunately, such cases have now become prevalent in Naga homes. Those found guilty will face the consequences,” Buchem warned.
The DC also emphasized the moral dimension of child abuse and child labour, stating, “This is not just a legal issue but one of existence, ethics, and humanity. Let us encourage one another to protect and save our children.”
Child labour laws
T. Chubayanger, Joint Labour Commissioner, Labour Department talked on child labour law and reiterated the strict provisions of The Child and Adolescent Labour (Prohibition & Regulation) Act, 1986, which is currently in force across the country to safeguard the rights of children and adolescents.
The Act, completely prohibits the employment of children below 14 years in all occupations and processes, except in family enterprises and for child artists under specific conditions.
Adolescents is defined as individuals between 14 and 18 years of age. While adolescents are allowed to work, they are prohibited from being employed in hazardous occupations and processes.
No child shall be employed or permitted to work in any occupation or process. However, this will not apply where the child- helps his family or family enterprises which is other than any hazardous occupations or processes, but only after his school hours or during vacations.
The Act stated that no adolescents shall be employed or permitted to work in any of the hazardous occupations and processes set forth in the schedule for e.g. stone quarries, brick kilns, work relating to manufacturing, handling, grinding, cutting, welding, moulding or any other process involving inflammable substance and so on.
The state labour department stated that employment of children in any form of employment is a punishable offense.
Employers found engaging children in prohibited work face imprisonment from six months to two years, or a fine ranging from Rs 20,000 to Rs 50,000, or both. Similar penalties apply to those employing adolescents in hazardous occupations. Other violations of the Act can lead to imprisonment up to one month, a fine up to Rs 10,000, or both.
Child protection service
Sekho Dawhuo, District Child Protection Officer, Kohima challenged all stakeholders, government departments, business, civil societies and all individuals to accelerate efforts to eliminate child labour.
“Let us intensify action to protect children’s rights, ensure education and create a child labour free world,” he added.
He said that District Child Protection Unit plays a very crucial role in combating child labour by coordinating and implementing child protection schemes and policies.
Dawhuo also informed that Child Helpline 1098 is a national toll free helping number dedicated to children in difficult situations.
The primary aim of the Child Helpline is to support and assist any child who has fallen out of the safety net to provide emergency and immediate response and connect the child to existing long term services.
Child Hipline acts as a crucial link between children in distress and services available for rehabilitation, restoration or social reintegration.
Earlier, the programme was chaired by labour inspector Mhaletuonuo Keditsu while welcome address was delivered by Neimenuo, Assistant Labour Commissioner & DTF Nodal Officer. Kevi Children's Home presented special song.
The programme was organized by Labour department in collaboration with District Task Force Kohima.
Kohima Superintendent of Police Teisovise Metha also present at the event.
