The Punjab Restriction on Employment of Children Ordinance 2016
Purpose of this new legislation is to prohibit the employment of children and to restrict the employment of adolescents in certain occupations. In Pakistan, the problem of child labor is getting serious with every passing day. Due to poverty and unemployment, there are millions of children who are working in very dangerous environment.
In this law “adolescent” means a person who has attained the age of 15 years but has not attained the age of 18 years. In simple words a person between age of 15 and 18 years is adolescent. According to this law “Child” means a person who is under 15 years of age.
This law provides that no child should be employed in any sort of work and no adolescent should be employed in any work which is hazardous or dangerous. The violation of this act is punishable with imprisonment for term up to 6 months and fine up to 50000 rupees but not less than 10000 rupees.
Section 17 of this Ordinance says that offence under this law shall be cognizable by police on the complaint in writing made by inspector. It means any violation of this law allows police to register FIR. Further it states that offences are non-bailable.
The trial under this Ordinance must be conducted by Magistrate Section 30 and it will be conducted in summary manner. Overall this is good law which is promulgated for the safety of children but its implementation is the real issue. If implemented in true spirit, it will greatly help the children of country.
You can download the free PDF copy of complete Ordinance by clicking on the link given below.
PUNJAB RESTRICTION ON EMPLOYMENT OF CHILDREN ORDINANCE 2016
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