Daijiworld Media Network - Karkala

Karkala, July 22: A minor boy from Uttar Pradesh was rescued from a construction site at Ajekar village in Karkala taluk following a joint inspection by officials after a public complaint alleged the engagement of child labour.

The inspection was conducted under the directions of the Labour Department. The rescued child was produced before the Child Welfare Committee (CWC) for further care, protection and rehabilitation.

Karkala circle labour inspector Naveen C H warned building owners and employers against engaging children in construction activities or any other occupation. He advised employers to thoroughly verify the identity and age-related documents of workers brought from other states before employing them.

He further stated that appropriate legal action would be initiated against those found responsible in the present case.

District labour officer, Udupi sub-division, Kamal Shah Altaf Ahmed, said free and compulsory education is the fundamental right of every child and that ensuring this right is the responsibility of every citizen.

He pointed out that under the Child and Adolescent Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Act, 1986, employing children below 14 years of age in any occupation or process, and engaging adolescents below 18 years in hazardous occupations, is a punishable and cognisable offence.

For a first offence, employers may face imprisonment ranging from six months to two years, a fine between Rs 20,000 and Rs 50,000, or both. Repeat offenders may face imprisonment ranging from one to three years. Parents or guardians who knowingly encourage child labour may also face penalties, while repeated violations can attract a fine of Rs 10,000.

The joint operation was conducted by Karkala circle labour inspector Naveen C H, District Child Labour Project Society Project director Amrutha, and Child Protection unit social worker Nayana.