Should the Patna HC Ban the Employment of Minors in Orchestra and Dance Groups?
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Synopsis
The Patna High Court is responding to a plea that seeks to prohibit the employment of minors in orchestra and dance groups, addressing the urgent need to combat child trafficking and exploitation. This pivotal case highlights the serious issue of child rights and the ongoing fight against abuse in entertainment sectors.
Key Takeaways
- Patna High Court issues notice regarding minor employment.
- Call for a complete ban on minors in orchestra and dance groups.
- Focus on preventing child trafficking and exploitation.
- JRC advocates for coordinated action and victim rehabilitation.
- Legal action against traffickers is essential.
New Delhi, June 29 (NationPress) The Patna High Court has directed the Bihar government to respond to a petition advocating for a total ban on the employment of minors in orchestra and dance groups to combat child trafficking and the exploitation of children.
A bench comprising Acting Chief Justice (ACJ) Ashutosh Kumar and Justice Partha Sarthy addressed the petition filed by Just Rights for Children (JRC), a coalition of over 250 NGOs dedicated to child rights protections. The petition seeks immediate actions to seal and shut down venues where minors or trafficking victims are held and forced to engage in unlawful activities.
Recognizing the trafficking and exploitation of children as a “grave issue”, the bench led by ACJ Kumar has called for the Bihar government to provide a response within two weeks.
The petitioners, JRC, are requesting the creation of a detailed and coordinated action plan involving all relevant stakeholders to safeguard minor girls from exploitation. They also seek directives for the Bihar government to regulate and monitor orchestra groups and ensure victims receive compensation and rehabilitation as stipulated by the Bihar Victim Compensation Scheme, 2014.
In previous operations, JRC's partner organizations, working alongside local authorities, rescued numerous minor girls during raids on orchestra groups located in the districts of Rohtas, Saran, and Gopalganj.
In light of these rescues, JRC has called for a complete prohibition on the employment of minor girls in orchestra groups and has urged for comprehensive rehabilitation measures to ensure these individuals are not re-victimized.
“These children endure daily sexual, physical, and emotional abuse, representing a clear violation of their constitutional rights under Articles 21, 23, 24, 38, 39, and 43 of the Constitution of India,” stated the plea.
Additionally, it emphasized the need for stringent legal actions against offenders to dismantle trafficking networks and prevent the exploitation of minors within the orchestra and dance groups throughout Bihar.
Point of View
It is crucial to recognize the alarming trends surrounding child exploitation in entertainment sectors. The Patna High Court's intervention reflects a growing awareness and urgency to protect vulnerable minors. This case not only emphasizes the need for stricter regulations but also highlights the importance of collaborative efforts among all stakeholders to ensure the safety and rights of children are upheld across the nation.
NationPress
29/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current status of the Patna HC's notice?
The Patna High Court has issued a notice to the Bihar government, requesting a response to a plea seeking a ban on the employment of minors in orchestra and dance groups.
What does the plea by Just Rights for Children (JRC) request?
The plea requests a total ban on the employment of minors in these groups, as well as a comprehensive action plan to prevent exploitation and ensure rehabilitation for victims.
What measures have been taken to rescue minors?
JRC and its partner organizations have conducted successful raids in various districts, rescuing a significant number of minor girls from exploitative conditions in orchestra groups.
