Daijiworld Media Network –Mangalore (SP)

Mangalore, May 12: Out of ten child labourers rescued by the department of labour in association with several other departments on Wednesday May 11, three were released later in the day, while seven continue to be in the remand home at Bondel here.

The identities of the children picked up from the fishing port here where they were working, have been given as Subrahmanya from Bunder in the city, Abdul Rashid from Ullal, Manikantan, Kalai Selvi, Ilavarasan, and Armugam, children of Tamil Nadu-based parents, Ranganath from Bagalkot, Siddappa, Durai Raju and Satyasundaram.

Ahmed Bawa, president of Fresh Fish Merchants Association, said that these children were engaged in the work for earning something during their holidays. He said that they work voluntarily and not under pressure from anyone. At the same time, he did not find fault with the operation of the officials.

The officials said that their intention was to ensure that the children up to the age of 14 get education. They plan to conduct such rides on a monthly basis. Parents of some children said that their wards were attending schools at their native places.

Upon producing these children in the presence of the Children Welfare Committee on Wednesday afternoon, Abdul Rashid was released as he was a major, and two others were sent with their parents, after the parents produced relevant records. The others will also be released once their parents present documentary proof, the officials said.