Mission Vatsalya Kupwara Conducts Anti-Child Labour Drive at Bus Stand Handwara, Rescues 4 Children

On the directions of Mr. Hidaitullah Mir, District Child Protection Officer (DCPO) Kupwara, Mission Vatsalya Kupwara today conducted an anti-child labour drive at the bus stand in Handwara. The initiative, aimed at identifying children in street situations, those involved in begging, and children engaged in labour, is part of a Pan-India campaign focused on safeguarding children's rights and well-being.

The drive was carried out with the active participation of officials from the Child Welfare Committee (CWC) Kupwara, District Child Protection Unit (DCPU), Juvenile Justice Board (JJB), Child Helpline, and Juvenile Police Unit Handwara.

During the operation, four children were identified as being engaged in child labour. These children were promptly rescued and restored to their respective parents or guardians after the cases were registered against the employers under the relevant provisions of the Child Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Act.

As part of the drive, awareness was also raised among the local trade community, shopkeepers, and employers about child rights and the Juvenile Justice (JJ) Act, 2015. The authorities urged business owners to refrain from employing children below the age of 18, emphasizing the importance of protecting children from exploitation and ensuring their safety and welfare.

The authorities have committed to continuing efforts to eradicate child labour across the district and ensuring that every child is given the right to a safe and healthy environment for growth and development.