Shoaib Pathan
Srinagar , Nov 16 ( KINS ) : In a proactive step towards eradicating child labor, an anti-child labor campaign was conducted in the border towns of Uri and Boniyar in Baramulla district on Saturday. The initiative, part of a Pan India effort, was spearheaded by the Child Welfare Committee (CWC), District Child Protection Unit, Child Helpline, Labor Department, and Police Department.
During the drive, 11 children found engaged in labor were identified and rescued. They were promptly handed over to their legal guardians. Authorities also issued stern warnings to parents, hotel owners, bakery shopkeepers, and transporters, urging them to refrain from employing children.
Waseem Hassan Paray, Chairperson of the CWC, emphasized the detrimental effects of child labor, stating, “Child labor is a severe violation of children’s rights and a barrier to their future. We urge parents to prioritize their children’s education and ensure they are enrolled in schools or Anganwadi centers.”
Labor Officer Nandini Pandita highlighted the legal consequences of child labor, warning, “Employing children is a punishable offense, and we will take strict action against violators.” She also stressed the collective responsibility of society to provide a safe and nurturing environment for children.
The campaign concluded with a call to the public to report any instances of child labor or exploitation by contacting the Child Helpline at 1098, as part of efforts to secure a better future for children and eliminate child labor.( KINS )