(a)whether the Government is aware that children are being extremely exploited for
commercial advertisements and television shows;
(b)if so, the details thereof and the reaction of the Government thereto;
(c)whether the exploitation of such children does not come under the purview of child
labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Act, 1986;
(d)if so, the reasons therefor; and
(e)the corrective measures taken/being taken by the Government in this regard?
MINISTER OF STATE FOR LABOUR AND EMPLOYMENT (SHRI KODIKUNNIL SURESH)
(a) to (e): The Child Labour (Prohibition & Regulation) Act, 1986, prohibits the
employment of children below the age of 14 years in 18 Occupations and 65 Processes.
Working of children in advertisements and television shows below the age of 14 years
is not prohibited under the Child Labour (Prohibition & Regulation) Act, 1986, but is
covered under the regulatory provisions of the Act. However, a proposal for certain
amendments in the Child Labour (Prohibition & Regulation) Act, 1986 to make it more
effective is under consideration with the Government. The Child Labour (Prohibition &Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2012 has been placed in the Parliament and
is presently under examination with Standing Committee. The Amendment Bill inter-alia
covers.
(i) complete prohibition on employment of children below 14 years and linking the age of
the prohibition with the age under Right to Free and Compulsory Education Act,
(ii) prohibition of working of Adolescents (14 to 18 years) in Mines, Explosives and
hazardous occupations set forth in the Factories Act, 1948,
(iii) more strict punishment to the offenders and making the offences under the Act
cognizable.