I see children working in a brick kiln near Rourkela, where do I complain and what does the law say?

Detailed Legal Analysis

If you see children working in a brick kiln near Rourkela, you should report this violation to the appropriate authorities, as child labor is illegal under Indian law.

According to the Child and Adolescent Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Act, 1986, it is prohibited to employ children below the age of 14 years in any occupation, and this includes brick kilns. The law aims to eradicate child labor and provides specific provisions for the protection of children.

Here are the steps you can take to lodge a complaint:

• Identify the Appropriate Authority:
  • Contact the local Child Labour Rehabilitation and Welfare Society.
  • Reach out to the District Labour Officer (DLO) in Rourkela.
  • File a complaint with the local police station under Section 10 of the Child and Adolescent Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Act, 1986.
• Gather Evidence:
  • Document details such as the location of the brick kiln, the number of children working, and any visible conditions that indicate their labor.
  • If possible, take photographs or videos as evidence (ensuring confidentiality and safety).
• File the Complaint:
  • Write a formal complaint detailing your observations and include any evidence you have gathered.
  • Submit this complaint either in person or through email to the identified authorities.
• Follow Up:
  • After filing the complaint, follow up with the authorities to ensure action is being taken.
  • Request updates on the status of your complaint and any actions taken against the violators.

In addition to the Child and Adolescent Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Act, the Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act, 2009, emphasizes the right to education for children aged 6 to 14 years, further reinforcing the illegality of child labor. You can also contact NGOs working in child welfare for further assistance and support in addressing this issue.