SRINAGAR: The District Legal Services Authority (DLSA) Srinagar, in collaboration with the Child Welfare Committee (CWC) Srinagar, launched a significant drive today as part of the nationwide, Pan India Rescue and Rehabilitation campaign ‘A Step to Eradicate Child Labour’.
This initiative was held under the guidance of Jaffer Hussain Beg, Chairman DLSA/Principal District and Sessions Judge Srinagar, and the supervision of Nusrat Ali Hakak, Secretary DLSA Srinagar, which aimed to rescue children and adolescents engaged in child labor across various sectors in Srinagar.
The drive commenced from the Tourist Reception Centre Srinagar, in presence of Nusrat Ali Hakak (Sub-Judge/Secretary, DLSA Srinagar), Dr. Khair-ul-Nisa (Chairperson, CWC), members of the CWC, Mohammed Nafee, Supervisor of Child Helpline, officials from Labour Department, Deputy Chief Legal Aid Defense Counsel and para-legal volunteers of DLSA Srinagar, who actively participated during the drive.
The campaign targeted both small and large establishments, focusing on the identification and rescue of child laborers. Approximately 10 to 15 children were rescued during the drive and were subsequently handed over to the Child Welfare Committee.
During the rescue drive an awareness drive was also conducted by DLSA Srinagar, during which students who were roaming in school uniforms in parks were given awareness regarding the importance of education and child rights. They were counselled not to bunk their school and to attend all their classes regularly and efforts were made to contact their parents. All rescued children were subsequently handed over to the Child Welfare Committee.
Speaking on the occasion, Secretary DLSA highlighted the gravity of child labour and the importance of collective action to eradicate this pervasive issue. She underscored the DLSA and CWC’s commitment to provide the rescued children necessary rehabilitation and support services.
She further added that Child labor is a violation of fundamental human rights, and said that they are dedicated to ensuring that every child in Srinagar has the opportunity to thrive. She also highlighted the critical role of awareness and community involvement in addressing this pressing issue.
Chairperson CWC also shared insights on the rehabilitation and support mechanisms available for rescued children, ensuring their reintegration into society with dignity and opportunities for growth.
The collaborative effort between the DLSA and CWC underscores the importance of inter-agency cooperation in combating child labor. The drive represents a concerted effort to protect vulnerable children and ensure their right to education and a safe childhood.