In a major crackdown on illegal child labour, authorities in Gujarat’s Surat city rescued 93 children from multiple saree packing and textile-related units during a coordinated inspection drive, officials confirmed on Friday. A detailed investigation has been initiated to trace the networks responsible for employing minors in violation of labour laws.
According to preliminary information, the rescue operation was carried out following inputs received by labour department officials and child protection agencies. Teams conducted surprise checks at several small-scale packaging units operating in industrial pockets of Surat, where children were allegedly engaged in packing, sorting, and other manual tasks for long hours under unsafe conditions.
Officials said the rescued children were found working in cramped environments with inadequate ventilation and no access to proper safety measures. Most of them are believed to be from economically weaker backgrounds and may have been brought from neighbouring districts and states with the promise of work.
After the rescue, the children were shifted to temporary shelter homes, where arrangements for food, medical check-ups, and psychological support have been made. Authorities also informed that counselling sessions will be conducted to help them reintegrate into formal education systems.
The labour department has launched an inquiry to identify the owners and operators of the units involved. Cases are expected to be registered under relevant provisions of the Child and Adolescent Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Act, along with other applicable sections for violation of labour and trafficking laws, if evidence supports such charges.
Officials have also indicated that stricter monitoring mechanisms will be implemented in Surat’s textile and saree processing clusters, which are known for high-volume production and subcontracted labour chains.
Surat, a major textile hub in India, has in the past also reported instances of informal labour practices, prompting repeated calls for stronger enforcement and regular inspections.
Authorities have assured that action will be taken against all responsible parties, and efforts are underway to ensure that such incidents are not repeated. The investigation is currently ongoing, and more details are expected as verification of records and interrogation of unit operators continues.
