Context

A recent study by Enfold and CivicDataLab has revealed a significant gap between the number of child labor cases reported by the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) and those recorded in judicial data from the e-Courts platform. The study, which analyzed data from Maharashtra, Assam, Bihar, Jharkhand, Tamil Nadu, and Uttar Pradesh, highlights the need for better data collection and stronger enforcement to address child labor effectively.

Key Findings:

• Discrepancy in Reported Cases: NCRB data shows 1,329 cases under the Child and Adolescent Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Act, 1986 (CALPRA) between 2015 and 2022. In contrast, eCourts data reveals 9,193 trials—nearly eight times the NCRB number.
• Underreporting: The NCRB's "Principal Offence Rule" may contribute to underreporting, as only the most severe crime is considered when multiple offenses are registered in a single FIR case.
• Importance of Judicial Data: Former Supreme Court Justice Madan Lokur emphasized the value of judicial data in understanding policy issues and improving the justice delivery system.

Why This Discrepancy Matters?

• The difference between NCRB and e-Courts data raises serious concerns. Accurate data is crucial for policymaking, resource allocation, and effective law enforcement.

·        Underreported child labor cases may result in weaker policy measures, leaving many children unprotected and trapped in exploitative labor.

Understanding Child Labor in India

Child labor is a widespread issue in India, affecting millions of children. The International Labour Organization (ILO) defines child labor as any work that deprives children of their childhood, potential, dignity, and physical or mental development.

The Indian Constitution, under Article 24, prohibits the employment of children below 14 years in factories, mines, or hazardous jobs. However, despite legal protections, child labor remains widespread due to multiple socio-economic factors:

• Poverty and Indebtedness: Many families rely on children’s income for survival, especially in rural and economically disadvantaged areas.
• Lack of Education: Limited access to quality education forces children into labor, as they have no alternative for skill development.
• Cultural and Social Norms: In some communities, child labor is socially accepted, with children following their families into work. This makes it harder to break the cycle.

Way Forward:

1.   Improve Data Collection: Governments and organizations must enhance reporting mechanisms to ensure accurate and comprehensive data. Using platforms like e-Courts can provide a clearer picture of the issue.

2.   Strengthen Laws and Enforcement: Stricter punishments for violators, along with better implementation of child labor laws, can help prevent exploitation.

3.   Increase Access to Education: Expanding quality education and skill development programs can reduce dropout rates and provide children with better opportunities, preventing them from entering the workforce prematurely.

Conclusion

The study underscores the urgent need for accurate data and stronger enforcement to combat child labor. Without proper reporting, the scale of the problem remains hidden, delaying effective solutions. By improving data collection, strengthening laws, and prioritizing education, India can make significant progress in eradicating child labor and protecting its children’s future.