The Legal Aid Committee of Baptist College, Kohima conducted an awareness program on 'Legal Provisions related to Child Labour Act & Consumer Protection Act' to enhance the students with the knowledge of legal systems prevailing on consumer rights and protection of children from exploitations through child labour held at Rivenburgs Chapel Hall, Kohima on 4th February 2025.
The program featured esteemed guest speakers, Neiko Akami, Member Secretary of the Nagaland State Legal Services Authority who opened the session by addressing the concept of law, emphasizing 'equality' as its core principle. He highlighted the significance of the Consumer Protection Act of 1986, describing it as a vital welfare legislation designed to safeguard consumers' rights.
Akami explained the nature of complaints under the Act, which include unfair trade practices, deficiencies in services, and defective goods. He encouraged students to be vigilant consumers and explained the process for filing complaints to the District Consumer Forum for compensation in such cases. To illustrate his point, he made a reference to the landmark case of 'Harjol Ahluwalia v. Spring Meadows Hospital' (1998), where medical negligence led to a tragic outcome, resulting in the victim being left in a vegetative state.
In addition to consumer rights, Akami also urged the students to avoid involvement in illegal activities, particularly ragging and the use of narcotic drugs, which are detrimental to both health and future prospects.
The second session of the program was delivered by Vimeno Kuostu, a Panel Lawyer with Kohima District Legal Services Authority (DLSA), who provided a detailed overview of the Child Labour Act 1986. She discussed the violations of human rights posed by child labour and highlighted the legal protections that prohibit the employment of children under the age of 14 in hazardous work environments.
Kuostu also pointed out the stringent penalties imposed on those who exploit children for such purposes, reinforcing the importance of protecting vulnerable children from such exploitation.
The event was chaired by Imtisenla Mokholee, Assistant Professor of the Department of Political Science, while Naro, Convenor of the Legal Aid Clinic, gave the welcome address. A special song was presented by Kikruzakhono, a B.A 6th Semester student from Sechu Campus, adding a cultural touch to the event.
The program concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Veshetsulu Ruho, Assistant Professor of the Department of Sociology.
The program successfully educated students about essential legal protections and fostered a sense of responsibility towards upholding consumer rights and preventing child exploitation.
(DIPR)
