No Guise for Abuse: On Child Labour in Nagaland

Nagaland is rattled by the alleged sexual abuse of a minor girl in Dimapur by none other than the person who took her away from her family with the assurance of providing education in exchange for domestic work. This heinous criminal act has triggered widespread public outrage and condemnation from various civil society organisations. While the swift arrest of the two accused persons by Dimapur police is commendable, it remains to be seen if the authorities will ensure timely delivery of justice. Too many such incidents have faded into obscurity after an initial outcry, only for another case to emerge, underscoring the futility of discussions without corresponding action. The growing number of sexual assault cases involving minors from economically vulnerable families by wolves in sheep’s clothing is a matter of grave concern. What is even more troubling is the fact that everybody, from legislators to officials to common people, knows of the rampant practice of child labour in the guise of education in the state. This practice deprives children of their rights, childhood, education, and dignity, yet it remains largely unaddressed. Physical and sexual assault cases surface with disturbing frequency, yet people continue to employ children for domestic work, despite knowing it is prohibited by Indian law and violates child rights. Expecting action feels akin to trying to rouse someone who is pretending to be asleep. This indifferent attitude has become an impediment to combating this visible crisis.

To prevent crimes against children, it is imperative to break the disturbing pattern of child labour prevalent in our society, masked as domestic help in exchange for education. Unfortunately, these children are frequently subjected to physical, mental, and emotional exploitation and abuse. Heinous crimes such as rape are often swept under the rug or resolved out of court due to disparities in social status—the rich and educated (employer) and poor and underprivileged (employee)—and the social stigma associated with such cases. Many victims choose to endure trauma and fear due to a lack of social support. And many victims’ families refuse to pursue cases legally for various reasons, including a lack of faith in our justice delivery system. The authorities must restore public trust by strictly enforcing child labour laws, strengthening monitoring mechanisms, and ensuring timely delivery of justice. In essence, child labour must be done away with altogether, regardless of whether the children appear to be well cared for. Simply put, it is against the law. One can always sponsor the education of underprivileged children without employing them.