Laborers and policemen rescue juveniles hired for hazardous work near Shiralakoppa in Shikaripur taluk

The Labor Department and the police conducted a joint raid on a crusher near Shiralakoppa in Shikaripur taluk on Monday and rescued two juveniles involved in hazardous work.

Following a call to the Children’s Helpline, officers found two children under the age of 18 in violation of the Child and Youth Labor Prohibition and Regulation Act. They were transferred to the Child Protection Committee and are currently sheltered in a government orphanage.

MP Venugopal, Shivamogga district labor officer, told The Hindu that the law prohibits engaging children below 14 years of age in any occupation. Similarly, it banned risky work for children aged 14 to 18. “Our officers in Shikaripur rescued the children who are now in safe shelter. We have started the process of filing an FIR against the employer,” he said.

As per the rules, the employer is required to pay a corpus fund of ₹20,000 for each child rescued, which is supplemented by ₹15,000 from the government. The combined amount is deposited in the children’s names and can be withdrawn with interest once they reach 18 years of age. “The children are currently in the Orphanage where CWC will ensure that they continue their education,” added Mr. Venugopal.

The Ministry of Labor said that employing children is against the law and carries both fines and prison terms.

Published – 23 Jun 2026 20:09 IST