Child and Adolescent Labour Act, 1986

The Supreme Court has issued notice to the Government seeking stricter prohibition of child labour in the entertainment and hospitality sectors. The context of constitutional safeguards and statutory protections against exploitation of children.

Provisions Against Child Labour in India:

Dimension	Key Details
Constitutional Basis	The Constitution contains multiple provisions to protect children from exploitation and hazardous employment.
Article 24	Prohibits employment of children below 14 years in factories, mines, or other hazardous occupations.
Article 39(e)	Directs the State to ensure that the health and strength of workers and children are not abused.
Article 39(f)	Directs the State to ensure that children are given opportunities to develop in conditions of freedom, dignity, and protection.
Article 23	Prohibits trafficking in human beings, begar (forced labour), and other similar forms of forced labour.
Child and Adolescent Labour Act	The Child and Adolescent Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Act, 1986 was amended in 2016 to strengthen protections.
Definition of Child	A child is a person below 14 years of age.
Definition of Adolescent	An adolescent is a person between 14 and 18 years of age.
Child Employment	The Act prohibits employment of children below 14 years in all occupations and processes.
Adolescent Employment	The Act prohibits employment of adolescents in hazardous occupations and processes.
Juvenile Justice Act	The Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015 provides protection, rehabilitation, and welfare measures for children in need of care and protection.
Objective	The legal framework aims to prevent exploitation, ensure education, protect health, and promote the overall development of children.