Chacko Anthony SJ
This day is meant to ask ourselves why we allow child labour. Do not children have their human rights? A happy future, a secure childhood, good education, good health, healthy family life etc. are non-negotiable rights of children.
As per definition, every working child under the age of 14 is a child labourer. According to International Labour Organisation (ILO) India has 10.3 million child labourers. Sadly, 70 percent are girl children. It is estimated that worldwide there are 150 million children in this category.
The prevalence of child labour in India is attributed to many causes.
Poverty is numbered on the top of the list. No one questions why poverty exists.
Family debts. Children are forced to work to pay family debts; it is a crucial form of bonded labour.
Domestic Help: Children are sent to work in homes to earn money. Even educated people in cities employ children and turn a blind eye to its evil consequences.
Sex work: Children are forced into child sex work. Unfortunately, there are many people who prefer sex with child virgins or children.
Begging: Children are employed in begging by organised gangs. Many children get maimed or blinded and used as child beggars.
Illegal operations: Children are trained as pick pockets or petty thieves and employed by gangs.
Child marriage: This forces young girls into domestic work which is often physically taxing.
Reports point out that there are five Indian states who are the biggest employers of child labour. They are: Bihar, UP, Rajasthan, Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh.
Does this phenomenon prick our conscience? What do our legislators and parliamentarians do?
Legal Position: India
- Child labour prohibition Act.
- Right to Education. Article 21 A (Indian Constitution)
- Prohibition of employment of Children in factories etc. Art.24.
- Rehabilitation of children under hazardous occupations (National Policy)
In spite of laws, regulations, conventions and policies, child labour flourishes. Lack of political will to implement them is the main cause of the prevalence of the evil of Child labour.