A child near my house in Kolkata is being abused by his employer, can I approach the state child welfare committee?

Child protection is governed by West Bengal Premises Tenancy Act 1997 read with the central Juvenile Justice Act applicable in Kolkata. The Calcutta High Court has held that any person can bring a child in need of care and protection before the child welfare committee.

You can approach the committee with the child and the complaint against the employer. The committee can order the child's rehabilitation and initiate action against the abuser.

The child is produced before the committee within 24 hours of rescue. The committee must ensure counselling and medical examination.

The employer is liable under the child labour law and the Juvenile Justice Act.