KOZHIKODE: Many among the wealthy in the rural areas of the district are still employing girls aged eight to 13, brought from the poverty-stricken regions of Wayanad and Mysuru for household jobs, says a Childline report. Despite various complaints, no action has been initiated against the house owners, it is learnt. The report, submitted to the district collector, will be forwarded to various authorities including the Labour department.
“Complaints had been forwarded earlier to the authorities too,” said the localites who talked to Childline and District Legal Services Authority (DLSA). However, the practice of employing underage children, especially girls, for household jobs, continues as no action has been taken against the guilty. “Being employed in palatial homes, these children lead a secluded life sans any interaction with neighbours,” said Childline district coordinator M.P. Muhammedali.
Childline district unit has launched its Balasuraksha Yathra at the block panchayat level on Friday after identifying the child abuse hotspots. A block-level security alert unit was installed by Childline in association with DLSA in Vadakara. Officials visited seven panchayats under Vadakara and Thuneri blocks - Onchiyam, Azhiyoor, Chorode, Eramala, Chekkiyad, Edachery and Purameri.
