(Publish from Houston Texas USA)
(Zafar Chishti, Bureau Chief Punjab)
Toba Tek Singh: Assistant Director Labour Welfare Department, Muhammad Shahbaz, in an exclusive talk our correspondent, stated that no compromise will be made on the elimination of child labour across the district. He emphasized that engaging children in labour is not only illegal but also a serious social crime and strict legal action will be taken against violators.Muhammad Shahbaz said that the Labour Welfare Department is conducting regular inspections in markets, workshops, hotels, brick kilns and industrial units to prevent underage children from being employed. He added that fines, registration of cases and other legal measures are being taken against owners who violate the law.He further stated that, in accordance with the directives of the Punjab Government, the Labour Department is also running awareness campaigns in collaboration with other relevant institutions to encourage children to pursue education and to ensure a better future for them. Parents and employers are being sensitized that child labour is detrimental to children’s development and future prospects.The Assistant Director appealed to the public to immediately report any incidents of child labour to the Labour Department or concerned authorities so that timely action can be taken. He assured that the identity of complainants will be kept completely confidential.
In conclusion, Muhammad Shahbaz said that the eradication of child labour requires collective efforts from the government, institutions and the public to provide children with a safe, educated and brighter future.
