Drive against child labour launched in Katra, four rescued

In a significant move, the district administration of Reasi, in collaboration with multiple departments, launched a comprehensive drive in Katra town to rescue and rehabilitate minors forced into child labour.

The operation, directed by the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR), was executed jointly by the Departments of Social Welfare and Labour. It was conducted under the supervision of District Child Protection Officer (DCPO) Sachin Sharma and Assistant Labour Commissioner (ALC) Annie Vaid. Members from several agencies, including Child Helpline and the Child Welfare Committee (CWC), actively participated in the rescue operation.

The rescue team carried out surprise inspections across various business establishments, including shops, restaurants, dhabas, street stalls, and workshops. During these inspections, four minors were rescued, highlighting the critical need for such operations to protect children from exploitation.

The rescued minors were taken for medical examination and later produced before the Child Welfare Committee (CWC), Reasi, for rehabilitation. Strict action has been mandated against those found violating child protection laws. The administration urged the public to report any cases of child abuse, trafficking, or exploitation to the District Child Protection Office by contacting the Child Helpline at 1098.

DCPO Sachin Sharma assured that similar operations would continue to be conducted regularly to protect and rehabilitate children in street situations.