The government is intensifying efforts to oversee adherence to working conditions standards for child actors in the film and television industry. These measures are being taken in light of concerns about infringement of child labour rules in these sectors, mandating that producers include disclaimers when children are featured on screen.
Understanding Child Labour
Child labour is characterised as work that deprives children of their childhood, hampers their potential growth and undermines their dignity. It’s harmful to both their physical and mental development. It refers to activities that pose mental, physical, social or moral threats to children and which disrupt their education. It can result in denying them the chance to go to school, force them to leave school prematurely or oblige them to juggle school with long and strenuous work schedules.
Child Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Amendment Rules, 2017
Under the Child Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Amendment Rules, 2017, stringent guidelines for child artists have been laid down. According to these rules, children are allowed to engage in work for a maximum of five hours per day, and they should not work more than three consecutive hours without a break.
Before a child actor can be engaged, the regulations require permission from the District Magistrate and an assurance by the producer. There should be at least one personnel appointed for every five child actors to ensure their safety and security.
Furthermore, the rules state that children should not miss school for more than 27 days. Also, 20% of their earnings should be set aside in a fixed deposit account in their own name.
Compulsory Disclaimer in Film Involving Child Actors
If a child artist participates in a film, the rules dictate that a disclaimer must be included in the film. This disclaimer should convey that all necessary precautions have been employed during the shooting to prevent any possible abuse, neglect or exploitation of the child.
Overview of Child Labour Regulations
| Regulations | Description |
|---|---|
| Work Hours | Maximum of 5 hours a day, not more than 3 hours without rest |
| Permission & Undertaking | Required from the District Magistrate and Producer |
| Safety Measures | At least one individual assigned for every 5 children |
| School Attendance | Shouldn’t be away from school for more than 27 days |
| Earnings | 20% must be deposited in a Fixed deposit in child’s name |
| Disclaimer | Mandatory in films involving child actors |
Addressing Child Labour in Film and Television Industry
The film and television industry is being overseen by the government to ensure that conditions conducive to healthy childhood are not compromised. With these rules in place, the aim is to strike a balance between opportunities for talented children and their right to normal, unencumbered childhoods.
Last Modified: February 6, 2024