Three minor boys have been rescued from brick kilns in the Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Konaseema district of Andhra Pradesh. The rescue operation was conducted on Friday by a team of officials from the Labour Department, accompanied by representatives from NGOs working to combat child labour. The raids targeted three brick kilns located in the Aalamuru and Tallapalem areas, falling within the Ramachandrapuram assembly constituency.
Authorities Direct Action Against Kiln Owners
Following the rescue, Labour Minister Vasamsetti Subhash stated that the three minors found engaged in brick kiln work would be admitted to nearby schools. He further directed Labour Department officials to initiate appropriate action against the owners of the brick kilns for employing underage children. The minister emphasized the department’s commitment to eradicating child labour and ensuring that children are in educational institutions rather than hazardous workplaces.
Broader Context of Child Labour in Andhra Pradesh
This incident in Konaseema highlights a persistent issue of child labour in Andhra Pradesh. Data from the Women and Child Welfare Department indicates that between 2020 and 2024, over 7,000 children were rescued from child labour across the state. In 2024 alone, 2,245 children were rescued, marking the highest annual count in recent years. The number of rescues has seen a steady increase from 671 in 2020 to 1,895 in 2023.
District-wise data for 2024 reveals variations, with Chittoor recording the highest number of rescues at 258, followed by Nellore (237) and Vizianagaram (226). However, some districts, including Ambedkar Konaseema, reported minimal or zero rescues, suggesting potential gaps in enforcement or under-reporting in those areas. The Child Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Act of 1986, amended in 2016, strictly prohibits the employment of children below 14 years of age in any occupation and adolescents between 14 and 18 years in hazardous work. The law prescribes stringent penalties, including fines and imprisonment, for violators, alongside provisions for the rehabilitation and education of rescued children.
Rehabilitation and Support for Rescued Children
The Women and Child Welfare Department prioritizes the reintegration of rescued child labourers with their families, believing that a nurturing family environment is crucial for their recovery and development. In cases where children are orphans or their parents are unable to provide care, the department, under the guidance of the Child Welfare Committee (CWC), arranges for their placement in child care institutions. Of the children rescued in 2024, 1,569 were reunited with their families, and 677 were placed in rehabilitation programs to ensure their well-being and future prospects. The proactive measures by the department are aimed at providing a brighter future for these vulnerable children and combating the deeply entrenched issue of child labour.
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The Chenab Times News Desk
