35 industries face music for child labour

BAGMATI, SEPTEMBER 3: A total of 35 industrial institutions and employers faced penalties for using child labour during the last fiscal year i.e. 2023/24. The Labour and Employment Office, Hetauda, took action after discovering illegal child labour practices during inspections of 95 industries.

Chhanda Narayan Shrestha, Chief of the Labour and Employment Office, reported that fines totalling over Rs 400,000 were imposed on the offending industries and employers. In addition to the penalties, 35 children were rescued from these industries during the same period.

Most violations were found in large industries, which also faced issues related to appointment letters, remuneration, and social and physical security. The Office directed these industries to reform their management practices, improve labour conditions, and cease the use of child labour.

Government authorities conducted inspections of hotels, industries, and workshops in response to complaints. Over the past year, the Office received 79 complaints related to unpaid wages, 60 of which were resolved through dialogue. The remaining 19 cases are still being processed.

To further combat child labour, the Office also conducted awareness programs in the Makwanpur, Chitwan, and Sindhuli districts.