Actual Article
Article 24 of the Indian Constitution prohibits the employment of children in factories, mines, and other hazardous occupations. This article is designed to protect children from exploitation and to ensure their right to a safe and healthy environment.
Text of Article 24
“No child below the age of fourteen years shall be employed to work in any factory or mine or engaged in any other hazardous employment.”
UPSC Notes for Article 24
- Objective: To prevent the exploitation of children and to safeguard their health and well-being by prohibiting their employment in hazardous conditions.
- Key Provisions:
- Prohibition of Employment: Children below 14 years cannot be employed in factories, mines, or any other hazardous jobs.
- Focus on Hazardous Occupations: Specifically targets sectors that pose significant risks to the health and safety of children.
- Significance: Ensures the protection of children from economic exploitation and hazardous working conditions, contributing to their overall development and education.
Important Cases and Commissions Related to Article 24
- M.C. Mehta vs. State of Tamil Nadu (1996): The Supreme Court issued directives to the government to improve the working conditions of children employed in hazardous industries and to ensure their proper education and rehabilitation.
- Bandhua Mukti Morcha vs. Union of India (1984): Addressed issues related to bonded child labor, directing the government to take effective steps for their release and rehabilitation.
- People’s Union for Democratic Rights vs. Union of India (1982): Highlighted the need for strict implementation of labor laws to protect children from exploitation.
Important Reports Related to Article 24
- Gurupadswamy Committee Report (1979): Led to the enactment of the Child Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Act, 1986, which regulates the employment of children in various occupations and processes.
- National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) Reports: Regularly monitor and report on child labor issues, recommending measures for better enforcement of Article 24.
- International Labour Organization (ILO) Reports: Provide global perspectives and recommendations on eliminating child labor, influencing India’s policies and legislative framework.
Previous Year Prelims Questions Related to Article 24
- Prelims 2018:
- Which of the following statements is/are correct regarding Article 24 of the Indian Constitution?
- It prohibits the employment of children below the age of 14 years in factories, mines, and other hazardous employment.
- It allows children to work in family businesses if the work is not hazardous.
- (a) 1 only
- (b) 2 only
- (c) Both 1 and 2
- (d) Neither 1 nor 2
- Answer: (a) 1 only
- Prelims 2016:
- Under which Article of the Indian Constitution is the prohibition of employment of children in hazardous jobs covered?
- (a) Article 21A
- (b) Article 23
- (c) Article 24
- (d) Article 25
- Answer: (c) Article 24
Previous Year Mains Questions Related to Article 24
- Mains 2015:
- Critically examine the effectiveness of legislative measures in addressing child labor in India. How far has Article 24 been successful in protecting children from hazardous employment?
- Mains 2013:
- Discuss the challenges in the implementation of Article 24 of the Indian Constitution. What measures can be taken to ensure better enforcement of child labor laws?
Article 24 is a fundamental safeguard against child labor, focusing on the prohibition of employing children in hazardous conditions. It plays a crucial role in protecting children’s rights and promoting their health, safety, and education. Understanding its provisions, along with related judicial interpretations and legislative measures, is essential for UPSC aspirants preparing for both prelims and mains examinations.