17 Child Laborers Rescued in Kolkata's Bow Bazar During Legal Aid Operation

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, December 27, 2024, Kolkata : The issue of child labor has been a growing concern in Kolkata, and recent reports have raised alarms about its increasing prevalence in the city. In response, Legal Aid officers conducted a series of investigations, focusing on areas in Kolkata's Bow Bazar. During their raid, 17 child laborers, aged between 10 to 14 years, were rescued by the authorities. The children were found working in various small factories and hotels across the region.

Following the rescue operation, the children were safely returned to authorities, and the police have stepped in to ensure their well-being. This incident has sparked widespread concern, especially considering the efforts made by the government to increase child education in the state. With enhanced initiatives such as mid-day meals for schoolchildren, free textbooks, notebooks, and Sabuj Sathi bicycles, the state has been striving to improve the quality of education. Additionally, government schemes like student credit cards and tablets for higher education are available, which raises questions as to why child labor continues to persist.

It was later revealed that all the child laborers found in the raid were from the neighboring state of Bihar. This discovery led the Legal Aid officers to collaborate with local police to conduct the operation. In an official statement, Legal Aid Secretary and Judge Mou Ghatak Majumder emphasized the ongoing campaign against such immoral practices and assured the public that efforts would continue to fight child labor.

As this incident unfolds, it highlights both the progress made in child welfare and education and the pressing need for continuous vigilance and enforcement to protect children from exploitation.