Child labour is a slur
on the society which is still continuing in most of the countries, especially
the developing ones. Being an Indian when I think of this issue the first
question that arises is what constitutes child labour?
Earlier the weaker
sections of the society used to indulge their children into labour activities
to make the two ends meet at their homes.
More kids meant more working hands and that meant more income. But
poverty remains the core truth and here comes the very essential question: Is
it necessary to have so many kids if you can’t take care of them or fulfill
their basic needs? Their point of view, however, is quiet clear when they say
more the number of children, more comfortable will be their lives.
Then it also forces me
to think about those children who are participating in the numerous talent
shoes of our country or movies or television serials. According to me this too
falls under child labour. A child who should go to school, play with peers and
should spend his/ her life tension free gets up early in the morning, rehearses
the dialogues and portray different characters. The conditions at these places
are not at all favourable for the growth of a child. But I do not see anyone
raising a voice against this. Parents too should understand that at such early
days of life what a child needs is care and nurture and not limelight.
Therefore I can say
that it is not only the weaker sections that are at fault, we, the so called
educated people are also not responsible behind this flourishing trade of child
labour. My heart aches every time I see small child carrying loads of bricks on
his shoulders or a small child stands in front of the camera and talks things
that are beyond his/her age.
Through this column I
want to raise awareness to take a stand against all forms of child labour and
make this world beautiful for them too.
About the Author:
The Author is Ms. Meenakshi, Class Educator (JR 6), Meenakshi World School
www.meenakshiworldschool.com
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