Child abuse and neglect in a metropolitan city: A qualitative study of migrant child labour in South Kolkata

This study of a group of 120 migrant child labourers working in households, tea stalls, garages and shops in South Kolkata reveals that that an overwhelming number of the children are abused, in some way or the other-physically, mentally or sexually. Of those with health problems, a good number of them remain untreated. In some cases, abuse and neglect become fatal. Law enforcement agencies should be very strict in dealing with the perpetrators, who badly abuse and maltreat helpless children. Simultaneously, the community should be sensitised to this issue. In this regard, nongovernmental organisations (NGOs) should take the initiative for creating social awareness.