Child Labour in Karaniganj
A recent study conducted by the Bangladesh Labour Foundation reveals that approximately 47% of workers at the Keraniganj apparel hub, the country’s largest garment hub, are children aged between 5 and 17 years. This is in violation of the National Children Policy 2011, which prohibits the employment of children under the age of 14.
Key Findings
- The apparel hub consists of around 7,500 factories, employing a total of 300,000 labourers.
- Over 20,000 children aged between 5 and 14 years and 120,000 aged 15 to 17 years are employed here.
- Child labourers work 13-16 hours daily in exchange for board and lodging facilities.
- 95% of these children lack access to nutritious food, livable environments, and health protection.
Living and Working Conditions
Most child labourers at the hub endure harsh working and living conditions. Key issues include:
- Absence of hygienic toilets, clean water, and adequate fire safety measures.
- Minimal access to fresh air and daylight in factory environments.
- A “No Work, No Payment” policy, with monthly earnings ranging from Tk5,000 to Tk16,000.
Educational Background
- 4.2% are completely illiterate.
- 5.5% can only sign their names.
- 73.6% have passed the 5th grade.
- 16.2% have studied up to the 6th to 8th grade.
Roles and Employment
Child labourers are engaged in various roles:
- 48% work as helpers or interns.
- 22% serve as operators.
- The remaining assist in preparing yarns and other tasks.