A large-scale awareness campaign against child labour was carried out across various locations in Margherita Co-District on Friday as part of the month-long “Action Month Against Child Labour” being observed throughout June by the Tinsukia District Labour Welfare Department.
The campaign sought to raise awareness about the adverse effects of child labour and reinforce the message of “Stop Child Labour” among the public. Officials stressed the importance of collective efforts to eliminate the practice and ensure that children have access to education, protection and a safe childhood.
The drive was led by Margherita Co-District Labour Officer Subham Agarwal in collaboration with officials from the Tinsukia District Child Protection Office, including Shyam Upadhyay, Childline representative Jurina Phukan and personnel from Margherita Police.
As part of the operation, the team conducted inspections at hotels, restaurants, roadside eateries, shops and other commercial establishments in and around Margherita. During the inspections, several child labourers were identified and rescued.
Officials interacted with business owners and employees and sensitised them about legal provisions relating to child labour. They urged employers not to engage children in any form of work and highlighted that employing persons below the age of 18 years in domestic work or commercial establishments constitutes a serious violation of the law and can invite stringent legal action.
Authorities stated that the campaign forms part of a month-long initiative being conducted across Tinsukia district from June 1 to June 30. The programme includes awareness meetings, public rallies, community outreach activities and surprise inspections at workplaces suspected of employing child labourers.
Officials noted that child labour deprives children of education and developmental opportunities while exposing them to exploitation and hazardous working conditions.
The Assam Labour Welfare Department appealed to members of the public to support the campaign by refusing to engage child labour and by promptly reporting instances of child employment to the concerned authorities.
The department expressed hope that sustained awareness efforts and strict enforcement of laws would help create a child-friendly environment and contribute towards the eradication of child labour from society.
