Reported by Bit Irom
Imphal: On the occasion of World Day Against Child Labour 2026, Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh called on the public to pledge that every child should be in school, learning and growing, instead of joining the workforce.
Speaking on this year’s theme, “Red Card to Child Labour: Fair Play for Children, Decent Work for Adults,” Khemchand Singh noted, “It reminds us of our collective responsibility to protect childhood and guarantee every child access to quality education and opportunities.”
On his official Facebook page, he wrote, “Together, let us build a future where every child can learn, play, and thrive.”
Officials reported that academic research on child labour in Manipur highlights the prevalence of children working in informal, non-hazardous sectors such as domestic service, hotels, restaurants (often referred to as “hotel boys”), and local shops.
Key studies indicate that the problem is driven largely by poverty, illiteracy, and migration. Unlike heavy industries, these informal roles predominantly employ working children between the ages of 14 and 18.
Most cases are found in the Imphal West and Imphal East districts, followed by Bishnupur, Senapati, and Thoubal. A significant number of working children are engaged as domestic helpers, street vendors, and handymen in small repair shops.
While traditionally discouraged by local social norms, the practice remains prevalent among marginalized groups and migrant families seeking basic livelihoods.
Under the Child and Adolescent Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Act, the provisions are strictly enforced. The law completely prohibits the employment of children below the age of 14 in any occupation or process.
For adolescents aged 14 to 18, employment is strictly prohibited in designated hazardous occupations and processes.
Employers who violate these laws face strict penalties, including mandatory imprisonment for a minimum of three months (extendable up to one year) or heavy fines starting from Rs. 10,000.
The Social Welfare Department of Manipur, in coordination with the Manipur Commission for Protection of Child Rights, continuously conducts district-level surveys to identify, monitor, and rescue exploited children.
The state also utilizes the Government of India’s PENCIL Portal to track complaints and effectively enforce child protection legislation.
Rescued children are often supported through local Child Welfare Committees and provided care, rehabilitation, and skill-development opportunities in accordance with the guidelines of the Ministry of Women and Child Development.