Oct 10, 2006 :: Child Labour Law becomes more effective

Employment of children under 14 as domestic help, in hotels, motels, teashops, resorts etc has been banned under an amendment to the Child Labour Act of 1986 that comes into force today. Violators face a fine of Rs 20,000 or one year’s imprisonment or both. District collectors have been directed to raise awareness of the new law, to detect violations and to rehabilitate rescued children. Organisations working with children, help-lines, postmen electricity meter readers and neighbours are all expected to be encouraged to look out for offenders.

A law is a slow mover, but it is relentless and brings about change in the long run. We should see a somewhat better deal for young, poor children of India in the coming years.