Organisers and participants during the sensitisation programme held at Likya Community Hall, Likya Colony, Wokha on June 12. (Morung Photo)
Morung Express News
Wokha | June 12
In commemoration of Anti-Child Labour Day, a sensitisation programme was held at Likya Community Hall, Likya Colony, Wokha on June 12. Organised by District Child Protection Unit (DCPU) in collaboration with Department of Labour, Wokha, the programme was centred around the theme “Progress is clear, but there’s more to do: Let’s speed up efforts!” The event aimed to raise awareness about the urgent need to eradicate child labour from society.
The Deputy Labour Commissioner of Wokha, Thungpemo Lotha, addressed the gathering, underscoring the importance of eradicating child labour. He emphasised that employing children is a cognisable offence under the law, and highlighted the primary factors driving child labour, such as poverty, lack of education, and family issues. “Children are meant to learn, not to earn,” Lotha asserted, adding that child labour constitutes child abuse.
He appealed to the members of the colony council in attendance to take responsibility for spreading awareness within their respective communities. He further reminded the audience that violators of child labour laws face strict legal consequences. “Childhood is the best part of life, free from responsibility,” Lotha said, urging the community to ensure children are given the opportunity to attend school and build a brighter future.
Mary Swuro, Protection Officer (NIC) from the District Child Protection Unit (DCPU), Wokha, provided an overview of Mission Vatsalya, a centrally sponsored scheme aimed at promoting a healthy and happy childhood for all children. The scheme, according to Swuro, focuses on family-based care, empowering communities, and strengthening child protection systems with a child-centric approach. She also underscored that children are the greatest asset of the world.
Swuro elaborated on the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, which safeguards the rights and well-being of children. She explained that, as per Section 2(12) of the Act, any individual under the age of 18 is considered a child, and therefore, any child found engaged in labour is considered vulnerable and entitled to legal protection. Additionally, she expressed concern over the increasing cases of newborn abandonment and urged the colony council members to raise awareness about this issue, as well as the procedures for adoption—specifically for orphaned, surrendered, and abandoned children.
The Chairperson of the Child Welfare Committee (CWC), Wokha, Mhonchumi Humtsoe, gave a clear definition of a child and highlighted the importance of the 1098 Child Helpline in times of need. She reminded the audience that children under the age of 14 are entitled to free and quality education, noting that the government is taking all necessary steps to eliminate child labour.
Humtsoe stressed that raising awareness about child rights is one of the most effective ways to combat child labour. She also outlined the legal consequences for those found guilty of employing children, which include imprisonment ranging from six months to two years and fines up to Rs 2 lakh. There is no provision for compromise in such cases.
Following the programme, a discussion was held to further explore the issue of child labour, encouraging a deeper understanding among the attendees.
