The Government of Gujarat on June 12, 2023, issued a notification regarding sop for the elimination of child labour.
Across India, child labourers can be found in a variety of industries: brick kilns, carpet weaving, garment making, domestic service, food and refreshment services agriculture, fisheries, fireworks, mining and working as a child artist.
For attaining the ambitious goal of a child labour-free state, it is imperative to have effective enforcement and implementation of the provisions of laws related to child labour and child protection, a convergence of resources of Government, coordination between various stakeholders and active involvement of the community.
It has been observed that in spite of the presence of a number of protective legislations, the stakeholders need clarity and in the absence of this they face challenges in taking action when a child or adolescent labour is identified. Specific and detailed information is required about steps to be taken for rescue of the child/ adolescent and subsequent rehabilitative measures to be undertaken Simple guidelines enable the duty bearers to effectively implement the provisions of the laws with concerted efforts.
Each rescue should be dealt with on a case-to-case basis according to the circumstances, the rescue team should be alert and each action must be guided towards rescuing all victims, ensuring protection of the victims and collecting evidence for investigation and also ensuring safety.
