Baramulla: In a bid to combat child labour, begging, and exploitation, the Child Welfare Committee (CWC) Baramulla has launched an intensive Anti-Child Labour and Anti-Begging Drive in collaboration with the District Child Protection Unit, Child Helpline, Labour Department, Juvenile Police Unit, and District Police.
This campaign, part of a nationwide effort to address the plight of children in street situations (CiSS), focuses on identifying and rescuing children engaged in labor or begging across Baramulla’s vulnerable areas. These include large commercial establishments, small businesses, slums, and religious sites.
During this drive, authorities identified ten suspected minors involved in labor. Employers were instructed to produce necessary documentation to verify compliance with child labor laws. These operations signify Baramulla’s commitment to eradicating child exploitation and ensuring a safer environment for children.
Employers were warned of severe legal consequences for hiring children under 18, reinforcing the district’s zero-tolerance policy against child exploitation. Officials reiterated that violations would lead to stringent criminal action under existing laws.
To enhance public participation, the CWC urged citizens to report cases of child labour and begging through the *Child Helpline at 1098. Additionally, businesses were mandated to prominently display this helpline number to raise awareness and facilitate reporting.
The drive has already shown measurable success, with a significant decline in child labor cases in local businesses. This outcome underscores the effectiveness of coordinated action by the CWC and its partner agencies, paving the way for a brighter future for Baramulla’s youth.
Chairperson of the CWC, Wasim Hassan Paray, delivered a strong message to parents and employers involved in child exploitation.
He urged parents to prioritize education by enrolling their children in schools and Anganwadi centers. Paray condemned practices where children are abandoned, forced into begging, or subjected to labor, calling these actions harmful and unlawful.
Addressing employers, he warned hotel owners, industrialists, drivers, and transporters to stop employing children. He particularly criticized those who hire other people’s children for domestic work while ensuring their own children receive education.
“This is not only illegal but also a gross violation of basic human rights,” said Paray. “Every child deserves education and an opportunity for a better future.”He further warned of strict legal action against those failing to comply with these directives.
The CWC has called on the public to actively report instances of child labor or begging via the ‘1098 Child Helpline’, emphasizing the importance of community vigilance in protecting vulnerable children.
With continued efforts and public cooperation, Baramulla district aims to eliminate child exploitation and create a supportive environment where every child’s rights are respected and upheld.
