Anantnag, Dec 19: Ongoing efforts in south Kashmir to raise awareness and combat child labour have yielded promising results, although seasonal labour continues to be a primary concern, officials said.
Authorities in Kulgam said the execution of 19 drives since January 2023 resulted in the rescue of 21 children from exploitative child labour practices. Among those rescued, two hailed from different regions across the country. Anantnag and Shopian districts also saw significant efforts, with 20 and three child labourers rescued, respectively.
An official said the joint efforts involved the Child Welfare Committees (CWCs), District Child Protection Officers (DCPOs), Police, Labour Department, and District Legal Services Authority (DLSA).
Arshid Naik, Chairperson CWC Pulwama, said that 12 identified child labourers were successfully reunited with their families during 11 drives held across the suspected spots including in the industrial areas.
“For local children, measures were taken in cooperation with parents, including undertaking assurances to prevent future instances,” he said.
Muzaffar Ahmad, DCPO Anantnag, said their consistent preparedness to rescue child labourers in the district, specifically noting occurrences within brick kilns and restaurants. The existing legal framework, including the Juvenile Justice Act 2015 and relevant labour laws, serves as a tool for taking action against violators.
“Regarding the child labour case involving pony handlers, actions will be pursued in conjunction with the tourism department in Pahalgam to rigorously enforce laws against employing child labourers,” he added.
Saleema Hamid, CWC Chairperson Anantnag, stressed the importance of regular awareness and counselling programs aligned with National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) directives. These initiatives aim to ensure the welfare of children.
Saleema said awareness about child labour is crucial. “Often, during our drives, people tend to be fearful of the CWCs. It’s important to understand that we are here for their welfare. Anyone witnessing instances of child labour should feel free to contact us; our aim is their betterment. We advocate for children’s education and their presence in schools,” she said.
Sajad Ahmad, a member of the Child Welfare Committee (CWC), said their goal is to make Anantnag a child labour-free zone. “Any rescued child is brought before the CWC for rehabilitation. The primary objective of the child protection mechanism in Anantnag is to eradicate child labour from the region,” he said.
He said that seasonal child labourers often arrive with their families during the summer months and stay with them.
