New Delhi:
For the first time in independent India, employing a child below 14 years of age can land you in jail.
The Cabinet today approved the amendment to Child Labour Act which proposes a complete ban on employment of children up to the age of 14 in any industry. Any violation will be a cognizable offence, punishable with a maximum three years imprisonment or fine up to a maximum of Rs 50,000.
The amendment also proposes a blanket ban on employing children below 18 years in hazardous industries like mining.
According to the proposal, children between 14 and 18 years of age can be employed in non-hazardous industries like child care.
The law is a contravention of the Right to Education Act that guarantees free and compulsory education to all children between six and 14 years of age.