The Delhi High Court has taken a decisive step towards addressing the issue of child labor by directing authorities to recover back wages owed to three minor girls who were rescued during a raid in the national capital. The order was issued by Justice Sachin Datta, who emphasized the urgency of the situation and mandated that the authorities take immediate action. The girls were rescued on May 9, 2023, during a child labor raid, highlighting the ongoing challenges in combating this social issue.
Following the raid, the office of the Joint Labour Commissioner, West, calculated the back wages owed by the employers, who have since become untraceable. Justice Datta's ruling came in response to a petition filed by the mothers of the rescued girls, who sought the recovery of the wages owed to their children. The court noted that despite previous representations made by the petitioners, the employers failed to deposit the required wages, prompting the need for judicial intervention.
- Immediate recovery proceedings mandated — authorities must act swiftly to ensure payments are made within two weeks.
- Police investigation ordered — Delhi Police must locate the untraceable employers responsible for the exploitation.
- Emphasis on child rights — the ruling reinforces the commitment to combating child labor and protecting vulnerable minors.
In its ruling, the court referenced earlier judgments that stipulate recovery notices should be issued within two working days of a child laborer’s rescue. If employers fail to comply within two weeks, recovery certificates are to be issued, allowing the amount owed to be collected as arrears of land revenue through the concerned Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM). Justice Datta expressed hope that the recovery process would be expedited, ideally within three months.
The Delhi High Court's intervention sends a strong message regarding the rights of children and the legal obligations of employers. With the matter scheduled for a compliance report on October 28, the court expects authorities to file a compliance affidavit by the next hearing date. This ruling not only aims to provide justice for the rescued girls but also serves as a reminder of the ongoing fight against child labor in India.
