Why is Child Labor Still Prevalent in India Despite Being Banned? Exploring the Inaction of Public Servants

Child labor, a grave social issue, continues to persist in India despite being outlawed. The sight of children working in small shops, eateries, and other informal sectors is not uncommon. This raises a critical question: why is child labor still prevalent in India, even when public servants like policemen witness it but seldom take action? This article aims to explore the reasons behind the inaction of public servants and the persistence of child labor in India.

The Legal Framework Against Child Labor

India has a comprehensive legal framework to combat child labor. The Child Labor (Prohibition and Regulation) Act, 1986, prohibits the employment of children below 14 years in certain occupations and processes. The Right to Education Act, 2009, mandates free and compulsory education for all children aged 6-14 years. Despite these laws, the implementation remains weak, and child labor continues unabated.

Reasons for the Persistence of Child Labor

Several factors contribute to the persistence of child labor in India. These include:

• Poverty: Many families in India live in abject poverty and are forced to send their children to work to supplement the family income.
• Lack of education: Illiteracy and lack of awareness about the harmful effects of child labor often lead parents to send their children to work.
• Insufficient enforcement: The laws against child labor are often not strictly enforced due to corruption, lack of resources, and inadequate manpower.

Inaction of Public Servants

Public servants, including policemen, are often accused of turning a blind eye to child labor. The reasons for their inaction can be attributed to:

• Corruption: In many cases, public servants may be bribed by employers to ignore instances of child labor.
• Lack of resources: Law enforcement agencies often lack the necessary resources and manpower to effectively enforce the laws against child labor.
• Societal attitudes: Child labor is often seen as a ‘necessary evil’ due to poverty and unemployment. This attitude can influence the actions of public servants.

Conclusion

Child labor is a complex issue that requires a multi-faceted approach to address. While laws are in place to prohibit child labor, their effective implementation is crucial. This involves not only the active participation of public servants but also a change in societal attitudes towards child labor. Moreover, addressing underlying issues such as poverty and lack of education is essential to eradicate child labor in India.