Breaking chains: The fight against child labour in Poonch

In the remote region of Poonch, a remarkable event took place that aimed to shine a light on a deeply concerning issue—child labor. Children were invited from distant places to participate in a debate and drawing competition, where they could voice their thoughts and express their creativity. Through their various topics, the children, led by Azam and others, came together with a singular message: child labor must be eradicated. These young voices conveyed a painful truth—that children who should be studying in school, playing with friends, and enjoying the innocence of childhood are often found toiling on the streets. It is not uncommon to see small children, who should be immersed in education, working on roadsides, in hotels, mechanical shops, or even washing cars. Such a sight, which has sadly become far too familiar, demands immediate action. The message was clear: any citizen who witnesses a child working as a laborer should report the case to the nearest police station and take steps to ensure that the child’s right to education is upheld. The law provides free education to all children under the age of 14, yet this benefit is often lost due to a lack of awareness. Instead of schoolbooks, many children find themselves with tools to cut grass or clean dishes in their hands. They are employed in jobs that deprive them of the fundamental right to education, trapping them in a cycle of hardship and exploitation. The solution lies in raising awareness and encouraging people to take responsibility. Rather than turning a blind eye or accepting this as the norm, we must actively work to change the situation. These children deserve the opportunity to attend school or a madrasa, to gain an education that will empower them and prepare them for a brighter future. Education will enable them to stand up for their rights, break free from the chains of child labor, and carve a path toward a better tomorrow. This event in Poonch wasn’t merely about speeches or artistic displays; it was about igniting a movement of change. The children, with their poignant drawings and powerful words, urged everyone to recognize the injustice of child labor and take concrete steps to end it. Their collective message serves as a reminder that every child deserves a chance to learn, to laugh, and to live their childhood fully. By ensuring that no child is forced into labor, we are safeguarding not only their present but also the future of society as a whole.

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