Leh, June 12: Marking the World Day Against Child Labour, a joint surprise inspection drive was carried out across Leh’s Main Market on Friday to create awareness against child labour and strengthen efforts to protect children’s rights.
The drive was organized by the District Child Protection Unit (DCPU), Leh, under the District Task Force on Child Labour, in collaboration with the Labour Department, Child Helpline, Child Welfare Committee (CWC), ICDS Department, Health Department, Education Department and Ladakh Police.
The inspection team visited various commercial establishments and business units in the market area to monitor compliance with child labour laws. Officials reported that no instance of child labour was detected during the inspection, reflecting growing awareness among employers and the public regarding child protection laws.
The drive was coordinated by Protection Officer (Institutional Care) Aamir Sohail and Protection Officer (Non-Institutional Care) Fariya Rafiq of DCPU Leh. Representatives from the Education, Health, ICDS, Police, Child Welfare Committee, Child Helpline and other child protection agencies actively participated in the exercise.
Besides inspections, the team conducted awareness and sensitization programmes with shopkeepers, employers and members of the public, highlighting the harmful impact of child labour and emphasizing the importance of ensuring that children remain in schools and safe environments that support their education and overall development.
Officials reiterated the commitment of the District Task Force towards safeguarding children’s rights and appealed to citizens to immediately report any cases of child labour to the concerned authorities.
The observance served as a reminder of society’s collective responsibility to ensure every child enjoys a safe childhood, quality education and equal opportunities for a brighter future. Authorities reaffirmed their resolve to eliminate child labour and promote the welfare, protection and development of children across the district.
