I see children working in a brick kiln near Karnal, where do I complain and what does the law say?
BH Asked by Bhavna Chauhan from India
Quick Answer
Child labour is prohibited under the Child Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Amendment Act, 2016, and the Haryana Rent Control Act 1973 rules, which ban employment of children below 14 years in all occupations except family enterprises.
Detailed Legal Analysis
Child labour is prohibited under the Child Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Amendment Act, 2016, and the Haryana Rent Control Act 1973 rules, which ban employment of children below 14 years in all occupations except family enterprises. You should complain to the District Magistrate, the Labour Department, or the Child Labour and Adolescent Labour Nodal Officer in Karnal.
The Punjab and Haryana High Court has held that employment of children violates their fundamental right to education under Article 21A and is a cognizable offence. The employer can be imprisoned for up to two years and fined, and the child must be rescued and rehabilitated under the National Child Labour Project.
A complaint can also be filed with the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights or through Childline. The state is duty-bound to ensure the rescued child is enrolled in school.
Legal Provisions Referenced
Verify the current statutory text at India Code (the official repository of Indian legislation) or the Legislative Department. This answer is general legal information, not advice on your specific matter.
Disclaimer: AI-generated for educational purposes only. Does not constitute legal advice. Consult a qualified practitioner.