Karnataka's Labour Department has reported the rescue of 2,325 child and adolescent labourers over the past four years, but the numbers are just the tip of the iceberg. Activists argue that the actual figures are much higher, as many cases go undetected due to weak enforcement mechanisms, especially in rural areas. The Child and Adolescent Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Act, which restricts adolescents from working in hazardous conditions, is often flouted, leaving many young workers vulnerable to exploitation.
The statistics reveal a troubling trend: of the 1,572 cases of child labour violations registered, only 89 resulted in convictions. This dismal conviction rate underscores a systemic failure within the legal framework, exacerbated by lengthy court proceedings and procedural lapses. Experts highlight that the lack of coordination among various government departments—education, police, and health—hinders effective action against violators.
Vasudeva Sharma, Executive Director of the Child Rights Trust, points out that many rescued children are migrants from northern and northeastern states, forced into labour-intensive jobs that compromise their education. The Labour Department acknowledges challenges such as a shortage of inspectors and resources, further complicating efforts to combat child labour.
