Rescue Operation at Coconut Processing Unit
Seven child labourers were rescued from a coconut processing unit in Karnataka during a raid conducted by authorities. The operation took place at a facility involved in coconut processing, where minors were found working under exploitative conditions.
Details of the Raid
The raid was carried out by a team comprising labour department officials and police personnel. The children, aged between 10 and 14 years, were engaged in tasks such as dehusking and grating coconuts. They were reportedly working long hours without proper wages or basic amenities.
Previous Incident in Tiptur
This rescue comes just a week after a similar operation at Kalpataru Juice Centre in Tiptur, where child labourers were also rescued. A case was registered at the Town Police Station in connection with that incident. Authorities are now investigating whether the two cases are linked to a larger network of child labour exploitation.
Legal Action and Aftercare
The rescued children have been taken to a shelter home for rehabilitation and medical check-ups. Officials are working to trace their families and ensure their return to education. The owner of the coconut processing unit has been detained and faces charges under the Child Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Act and other relevant laws.
Impact and Ongoing Efforts
According to labour department officials, such raids are part of a statewide drive to eliminate child labour. They urged the public to report any instances of child exploitation. The rescue highlights the persistent issue of child labour in informal sectors like coconut processing, despite strict legal prohibitions.
