Accountability and implementation are keys to success. The National Consultation on Eradication of Bonded Labour and Trafficking in India was an event organized by Bachpan Bachao Andolan…
Addressing the consultation, Ministry of Labour and Employment Secretary Shankar Aggarwal said: “Growth will remain meaningless unless it is inclusive and promotes development of disadvantageous sections of society. We are committed to eradicating all forms of exploitation through strong deterrents and rehabilitation mechanisms for victims.”
Senior officials from the Ministry of Labour and Employment, Ministry of Home Affairs and Ministry of Women and Child Development; chairperson and members of the National Commission on Protection of Child Rights and State Commissions on Child Rights and State Child Labour Commissions threw light on various crucial initiatives by the government towards child protection, such as the revised Central Sector Scheme for Bonded Labourers, the Draft Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection) Rules (out for public consultation) and a comprehensive Human Trafficking Law.
Nobel Peace laureate Kailash Satyarthi said, “The key lies in recognising that these crimes are not disparate offences, but are different forms of slavery. Convergence of efforts at the Central, State and district levels among various agencies for rehabilitation is essential for complete elimination of child trafficking.”
During the event there were presentations and discussions about trafficking of bonded and child labourers, exploitation, and rehab for victims.
An announcement was made that financial assistance for rescued victims has increased 15-X. For children rescued, it has increased from Rs.20,000 to Rs.3 lakh. Satyarthi explained that there have been huge strides in creating policy framework to combat trafficking. But, he warned that there are still serious gaps when it comes to prevention and protection.
Mr. Satyarthi: “The benefits of new legislations will only reach the most neglected child when processes and procedures of implementation are strengthened and accountability is ensured. Tough initiatives towards creating an economic deterrent, along with strong institutional mechanisms, are the need of the hour.”
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