Child Labour in India: What’s Illegal, Who Can Work & How to Report It

This law is made to stop the exploitation of children by prohibiting child labour in dangerous jobs and regulating the work of older children in non-hazardous jobs.

Key Points:

• Completely bans employment of children below 14 years in any job (except family-based work or entertainment industry with conditions).
• Teenagers aged 14–18 (called “adolescents”) are not allowed to work in hazardous occupations like mining, factories, explosives, etc.
• Non-hazardous work for adolescents is allowed, but with proper rules (fixed hours, safety, no night shifts).
• The law supports education for all children under 14, as per the Right to Education (RTE) Act.
• Employers hiring children illegally can face penalties – fine up to ₹50,000 and/or jail up to 2 years.
• Government can inspect workplaces, rescue child workers, and take action against violators.

Child Labour Act –  FAQs

1. What is the main purpose of this Act?
   To stop child labour and protect children from being forced to work, especially in risky jobs.
2. Who is considered a “child” under this law?
   Anyone below 14 years of age.
3. What is an “adolescent”?
   A person aged 14 to 18 years.
4. Can a child below 14 work in any job?
   No, it’s completely banned—except for helping in family work after school hours or during vacations.
5. Can children work in movies or TV?
   Yes, but only under strict conditions to ensure no exploitation or harm.
6. Is it legal for a 13-year-old to work in a shop?
   No. Children below 14 cannot be employed, even in shops or roadside stalls.
7. Can adolescents (14–18 years) work?
   Yes, but not in hazardous occupations (like mining, chemical factories, etc.).
8. What are hazardous jobs under this Act?
   Jobs like mining, firecracker factories, welding, construction, and other dangerous places.
9. Can a 15-year-old work in an office?
   Yes, as long as it’s not a hazardous job and rules for working hours and safety are followed.
10. What is meant by “family work”?
    Helping in family business like farming, grocery store, or home-based work, without affecting schooling.
11. Can a child work part-time after school?
    Only if it is family work. Otherwise, it is not allowed.
12. Is there any punishment for hiring children illegally?
    Yes. Employers can face ₹20,000–₹50,000 fine and/or jail up to 2 years.
13. Who enforces this law?
    Labour Inspectors, Police, and Child Welfare Committees under the district administration.
14. What happens to rescued children?
    They are taken to rehabilitation centres and helped with education and support.
15. Is domestic work by children allowed?
    No. Hiring children under 14 as domestic help is banned.
16. Are there time limits for adolescents who work legally?
    Yes. They can work only 6 hours a day, with a break after every 3 hours and no night shifts.
17. Does the law apply in rural areas too?
    Yes, it applies all over India, in both rural and urban areas.
18. What if a parent forces a child to work?
    Even parents can be warned or punished if they push their child into illegal labour.
19. What is the role of the Right to Education (RTE) Act?
    RTE supports this law by ensuring free and compulsory education for all children up to 14 years.
20. How can I report child labour?
    You can report it to Childline 1098, local police, or Labour Department officials.