Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
New Delhi (Agenzia Fides) - Most of the working children around the world are in India. According to the International Labour Organization, in the Asian country there are 12.6 million, between 5 and 14 years of age, of which approximately 20% are domestic workers and are often mistreated. Other organizations report higher numbers: up to 45 million and over. In the country there is great demand for domestic staff, including the families of lower social strata have at least one at home. Children cost less and are more docile than adults. Most of these children come from poorer Indian states, recruited from poor employment agencies or through seizures. In 2011 there were over 32 000 registered throughout the country: a real tragedy for which Indian law offers little protection. (AP) (Agenzia Fides 26/4/2012)
