Article 24 of the Indian Constitution: Prohibition of Child Labour
Introduction
Article 24 of the Indian Constitution prohibits the employment of children below the age of 14 years in factories, mines, and other hazardous work environments. This fundamental right is crucial in protecting children's health, safety, and overall well-being.
Text of Article 24
"No child below the age of fourteen years shall be employed to work in any factory or mine or engaged in any other hazardous employment."
Explanation of Article 24
1. Prohibition on Child Labour
✅ Children below 14 years cannot be employed in factories, mines, or hazardous jobs.
✅ Prevents exploitation and health risks associated with child labor.
✅ Does not ban child work completely—children may work in non-hazardous family businesses or entertainment industries under certain conditions.
2. Protection Against Hazardous Work
⚠️ Hazardous work includes industries like construction, firecracker production, mining, and chemical factories.
⚠️ Exposure to dangerous conditions at a young age can cause long-term physical and mental harm.
3. Laws to Enforce Article 24
🏛️ The Child Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Act, 1986 – Bans child labor in hazardous jobs.
🏛️ The Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015 – Punishes those engaging children in begging or forced labor.
🏛️ The Right to Education (RTE) Act, 2009 – Ensures free and compulsory education for children aged 6-14 years, reducing child labor.
🏛️ National Child Labour Project (NCLP), 1988 – Focuses on rehabilitating child laborers and enrolling them in schools.
Landmark Supreme Court Cases on Article 24
| Case Name | Judgment |
|---|---|
| People’s Union for Democratic Rights v. Union of India (1982) | Defined child labor as forced labor, making it unconstitutional under Articles 23 & 24. |
| MC Mehta v. State of Tamil Nadu (1996) | Ordered strict enforcement of child labor laws and recommended compensation & rehabilitation for affected children. |
Why Article 24 is Important?
✅ Protects Children's Health & Development – Prevents physical and mental harm from hazardous work.
✅ Promotes Education – Ensures children go to school instead of working.
✅ Reduces Exploitation – Prevents cheap child labor, ensuring fair wages for adult workers.
✅ Supports Economic Growth – An educated and skilled workforce contributes to national progress.
Challenges & Issues in Implementation
❌ Child Labour Still Exists – Millions of children work in garment factories, brick kilns, domestic work, and agriculture.
❌ Weak Law Enforcement – Many industries still employ underage workers illegally.
❌ Poverty & Unemployment – Many poor families rely on their children's earnings for survival.
❌ Lack of Awareness – Many people are unaware of child labor laws and their consequences.
Government Measures to Strengthen Article 24
✔️ Mid-Day Meal Scheme – Encourages children to attend school by providing free meals.
✔️ National Policy on Child Labour (1987) – Focuses on rehabilitation and skill training for child workers.
✔️ Beti Bachao Beti Padhao Yojana – Promotes education for girls, reducing child labor.
Conclusion
Article 24 is a critical step toward ending child labor and ensuring children receive education and a healthy upbringing. While laws exist to protect children, better enforcement, awareness, and poverty reduction programs are needed to completely eliminate child labor in India.
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