4 minors forced into child labour rescued from Katra

Reasi, Feb 8: The District Administration Reasi on Saturday launched a comprehensive drive to rescue and rehabilitate children and adolescents forced in child labour in Katra town.

The drive was conducted jointly by the Departments of Social Welfare and Labour on the directions issued by the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights, said an official statement. The drive was conducted under the supervision of District Child Protection Officer (DCPO) Sachin Sharma and Assistant Labour Commissioner (ALC) Annie Vaid in collaboration with members of different agencies.

The rescue team carried out inspections across various business establishments in Katra including shops, restaurants, dhabas, street stalls and workshops. Four minors were rescued during these inspections highlighting the urgency and necessity of such drives.

The rescue team comprised members from multiple agencies including Department of Social Welfare, Labour, Health, Police, DLSA and members of Child Helpline and Child Welfare Committee.

The team has mandated strict action those found violating child protection laws. The team urged the public to report any instances of child abuse, trafficking or exploitation to District Child Protection Office, Reasi or by calling Child Helpline at 1098.

The rescued children were produced before the Child Welfare Committee (CWC) Reasi for rehabilitation after their medical examination. The DCPO confirmed that similar operations will be carried out frequently to ensure a sustained effort in protecting and rehabilitating children and adolescents in street situations.