Child Labour Prevention Act Amendment in 2016

The Child Labour Prevention Act was amended by the Indian government in 2016. The amendment aimed to strengthen the protection of children against exploitation and abuse. Here are some of the key changes made to the act:

Ban on all forms of child labour
The amendment prohibited the employment of children below 14 years of age in all occupations and processes. Previously, children below 14 years of age were allowed to work in non-hazardous family enterprises after school hours and during holidays. The amendment removed this exception.

Increased penalties for violators
The amendment increased the penalties for violators of the act. The penalty for employing a child has been increased from a maximum of Rs. 20,000 to a minimum of Rs. 50,000 and a maximum of Rs. 1,00,000. The penalty for repeat offenders has been increased to a minimum of Rs. 1,00,000 and a maximum of Rs. 2,00,000.

Stringent punishment for hazardous work
The amendment introduced stringent punishment for employers who employ children in hazardous occupations and processes. The punishment includes imprisonment for a term not less than 3 years and which may extend up to 7 years and a fine not less than Rs. 50,000 and which may extend up to Rs. 1,00,000.

Strengthening of enforcement mechanisms
The amendment also strengthened the enforcement mechanisms of the act. The amendment made it mandatory for all district magistrates to constitute Child Welfare Committees (CWCs) in their respective districts. The CWCs are responsible for ensuring that the provisions of the act are implemented effectively.

In conclusion, the Child Labour Prevention Act amendment of 2016 was a significant step towards protecting children from exploitation and abuse. The amendment prohibited all forms of child labour and introduced stringent punishment for violators. The amendment also strengthened the enforcement mechanisms of the act.