Why Changes To The Child Labour Law Have Raised Red Flags

In an attempt to ensure that children do not get trapped in the vicious web of child labour, the government wants to amend The Child Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Act of 1986 and bring in tough new provisions, including prohibition of children under 14 in all vocations and all hazardous industries. The catch, however, is the new law drastically cuts down on the number of industries that will be considered hazardous, from over 80 to just three broad categories. Activists working against child labour say the change makes it legal for children to work in industries like zari and bangle making, garment work and toy making.