Supreme Court Seeks Centre’s Stance on Banning Child Labor in Spas and Orchestras

The Child Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Act, 1986, categorizes child labor based on age and hazard. Currently, adolescents (ages 14-18) may be employed in spas, massage parlors, and orchestras because these sectors are classified under 'Part B' of the Act. This designation permits employment under specific regulatory conditions rather than enforcing a blanket ban.

The petitioner argues that these environments present significant physical and moral risks to minors, warranting a shift to the 'prohibited' list. By issuing notice, the Supreme Court has compelled the Centre to justify the current classification. A favorable ruling would effectively criminalize the hiring of individuals under 18 in these service sectors, compelling an amendment to the Act's existing schedule.

• Petitioner demand: Reclassify spas and orchestras from 'regulated' to 'prohibited'.
• Legal context: The case involves the application of Article 24 of the Constitution.
• Current status: Adolescents (14-18) are legally permitted to work in these sectors under regulated conditions.

Glossary

Article 24: Constitutional provision prohibiting the employment of children under 14 in factories, mines, or hazardous occupations.

Part B Schedule: A classification under the Child Labour Act allowing adolescent employment subject to specific working conditions.