Crackdown on Child Labour: 10 Children Rescued From Bonded Labour in Patna

Patna: Ten children forced into bonded labour were rescued in a joint operation by Bihar’s Department of Labour Resources and local police on Thursday. The operation, part of an ongoing crackdown on child exploitation and human trafficking, targeted a garment-making unit in the Khajekalan police station area of Patna City, where children were being forced to work under inhumane conditions.

The raid took place at the residence of Subodh Sinha in Nauzar Ghat, where authorities found children aged between eight and 12 deprived of education, healthcare, and basic rights.

Deepak Anand, Secretary of the Labour Resources Department, urged the public to report cases of child labour to help ensure the safety and well-being of vulnerable children. “Every child has the right to a safe and healthy life. Bihar has adopted a zero-tolerance policy against child labour, and strict action will be taken against those involved in this inhumane act,” he said, adding that reports can be made via WhatsApp at 9471229133.

Bihar’s Labour Commissioner, Rajesh Bharti, described the rescue as a significant achievement in the fight against child exploitation. He said eight of the rescued children were from Rajasthan, while two were from Patna district. Immediate medical assistance was provided to the children, who have been placed under the care of the Child Welfare Committee. They will receive psychological support, education, and rehabilitation services to help them reintegrate into society.

The Bihar government, in collaboration with the central government, has intensified efforts to combat child labour. Local labour department officials are working to ensure those responsible for the exploitation face strict legal action.