Every one of us who has a concern for well being of children must know that there are Legislations in the country that protects children from exploitation. As responsible citizens in the country if all of us can become duty bearers and educate others about these legislations, we will be doing great service to the children of this country: the Child Labour Prohibition Act 1986 bans the employment of children below the age of 14 as domestic servants, roadside dhabas, restaurants, hotels, motor workshops etc . The Right to Education Act 2009 ensures all children 6-14 years the right to free and compulsory education. The Indian Constitution ensures the right of all children 6-14 years to free and compulsory education; prohibits forced labour; prohibits the employment of children below 14 years in hazardous occupations; and promotes policies protecting children from exploitation.
Whoever employs a child or permits a child to work is punishable with imprisonment from three months to one year or with fine no less than Rs.20,000 or with both.
Almost every Naga family/home keeps one or more child domestic servants. Most homes abuse these children; some children have horror stories to share about the kind of abuse/torture they face in the homes they work. A shame and a crime against children. What do we do? Inspite of knowing the fact that it’s illegal, do we keep quiet and children continue to suffer?
Some suggestions
1. Labour Deptt create awareness about this issue to the general community and to all Deptts employees who could be keeping domestic servants and abusing them at home .
2. Church pastors start talking about this social problem in the church. Much singing and praying and preaching about love and compassion in the church but in the homes domestic servants do not experience love and compassion from their Christian employers.
3. School children be educated about this, education is to about grooming a child into a good human being, being kind and considerate to other poor children who cannot afford to be in the schools but have to work for their living in somebody’s homes. The responsible school students should start talking about this issue and bring justice to other children who should also enjoy their childhood just like them
4. Women and youth organizations address this problem, educate their own members. Women/mothers at home are the main abusers of domestic servants . They should know this is illegal and punishable.
5. Gbs and other area leaders educate their own respective area members and report exploitation cases to concern authorities
6. Public spirited concern citizens be aware and educate others and report such cases
( K. Ela Prodigals’ Home,
CHILDLINE Collaborative Organisation)
