Rescue of Arunachal minor highlights ongoing fight against child labour and exploitation

By A Representative 

A 15-year-old boy from Lower Siang district of Arunachal Pradesh has been rescued and reunited with his family following the intervention of child protection authorities and local administration, according to a statement issued by Legal Defence for Human Rights (LDHR).

The child was restored to his family on May 25 after authorities acted on a complaint alleging that he had been living away from home under circumstances that raised concerns about child exploitation and possible bonded labour. Following the rescue, the child was produced before the appropriate child welfare authorities for care, counselling and further support.

LDHR welcomed the action taken by the district administration, law enforcement agencies and the Child Welfare Committee, describing the rescue as an example of effective coordination among government institutions responsible for child protection.

According to the organisation, the case highlights the continuing challenges posed by child labour, bonded labour, trafficking and other forms of exploitation affecting vulnerable children, particularly in economically disadvantaged and remote communities.

LDHR noted that many such cases often go unreported due to poverty, illiteracy, social stigma, geographical isolation and limited access to legal remedies. The organisation stressed that the rescue of one child should serve as a reminder of the broader need for vigilance and stronger child protection mechanisms.

"The successful rescue and reunification of the child is encouraging, but many vulnerable children continue to face exploitation without coming to the attention of authorities," said LDHR founder Sunil K. Chakma. He emphasised that child protection requires cooperation among government agencies, civil society organisations and local communities.

LDHR also called for comprehensive rehabilitation measures, including access to education, counselling, healthcare and livelihood support for affected families. The organisation urged authorities to ensure that all benefits and protections available under child labour and bonded labour rehabilitation schemes are extended to the rescued child.

Another founder of the organisation, Atul Chakma, said rehabilitation should remain the primary focus after a rescue operation, warning that rescued children often continue to face psychological, educational and social challenges long after they are removed from exploitative conditions.

LDHR coordinator Purno J. Chakma said the case demonstrated the importance of timely intervention and accountability, adding that individuals involved in child exploitation should be dealt with strictly in accordance with the law.

The organisation reiterated its commitment to promoting human rights and child protection and appealed to citizens, community leaders and civil society groups to report suspected cases of child labour, bonded labour and child exploitation.

LDHR maintained that every child is entitled to education, family care, dignity and freedom, and called for collective efforts to ensure that no child is deprived of these fundamental rights.