A compelling call for the establishment of special courts dedicated to persons with disabilities was made during a high-level consultation marking the International Day for the Abolition of Slavery, highlighting the unique vulnerabilities this community faces amidst ongoing struggles against modern exploitation in Sindh.
The Sindh Human Rights Commission (SHRC) convened the forum, bringing together government officials, civil society advocates, and labour department representatives to devise effective strategies for eliminating child and bonded labour within the province, according to official information today.
Agha Fakhar Hussain, Secretary of the SHRC, noted in his welcome address that the consultation serves as a reminder that modern-day slavery persists. He asserted that it is a collective duty to address forced labour and exploitation, stating the SHRC’s expanded mandate strengthens its resolve to protect vulnerable workers and children.
Barrister Rida Tahir, a member of the SHRC, provided an overview of the existing legal framework, including the Sindh Bonded Labour System (Abolition) Act, 2015. She affirmed that provincial law, specifically the Sindh Child Protection Authority (Amendment) Act, 2021, defines a child as a person under 18, aligning with international standards set by the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child.
MPA Barrister Shiraz Shoukat Rajper explained that the 2021 amendment to the Sindh Child Protection Authority Act introduced an expanded definition of abuse, offering children better safeguards against labour, beggary, and trafficking. He also underscored the importance of promoting compulsory education and vocational training to protect at-risk communities.
The specific appeal for specialized judicial bodies was advanced by Altaf Khoso, CEO of the Pakistan Legal United Society. He underlined the critical need for improved employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities and stressed that dedicated courts should be established to handle their cases.
Tehseen Fatima, another SHRC member, emphasized that cases of bonded and child servitude should be effectively incorporated into the work of District Vigilance Committees. She pointed to socio-economic challenges and inadequate educational infrastructure as root causes of child exploitation.
Representing the Labour and Human Resources Department, Sayed Athar Ali Shah acknowledged that while a robust legal framework exists, the primary challenge remains its effective implementation. He confirmed that non-payment of minimum wages and unpaid overtime are considered forms of bonded labour.
Shah reported that government efforts have seen child labour decrease from 20% in 1996 to a current rate of 10%. However, he conceded that bonded labour continues to be prevalent across the region.
Concluding the session, the SHRC stressed that enhanced inter-departmental coordination, rigorous law enforcement, and widespread community awareness are essential to shield children and workers from exploitation in Sindh.