Born to work: child labour in India

Abstract

This disturbing work is based on first-hand field investigations carried out in the brassware, gem polishing, lock making, and glass factories. Utilizing data collected under adverse and even hostile conditions, in defiance of Mafia-like organizations that shield industries exploiting child labor from the gaze of the outside world, the author describes the working conditions of these children. A large number of children, some only five years old, work through the night under great health and safety hazards. Workplace trauma is widespread, stunting the growth of these children both physically and mentally. The author contends that these appalling practices are rampant in India, and that state policies aimed at protecting children are poorly conceived and badly enforced. Illustrated with photographs, this thoroughly-documented study provides hard evidence of widespread abuse and exploitation.

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