A 12-year-old girl was rescued from an alleged child labour and abuse situation in Dispur on February 1 following a complaint received through the Child Helpline 1098, officials said.
Acting on the alert, the information was shared with the Additional Deputy Commissioner (Social Welfare), after which the District Level Task Force (DLTF) of Kamrup Metropolitan coordinated a rescue operation in the city.
Authorities found the minor hidden inside a bed storage during a raid. An FIR has been registered, and the child has been placed in protective care.
Rescue Operation in Dispur
Officials said the rescue was carried out by a joint team comprising a deputed magistrate from the district administration, a labour inspector, members of Childline, NGO representatives, and personnel from Dispur Police Station.
The minor, a resident of Silchar, was recovered from Juripar under the Dispur Police Station limits. Officials said the child was allegedly employed as a domestic help at the house.
During the operation, authorities found the girl hidden inside the storage compartment of a divan bed, a detail that raised serious concerns about her immediate safety.
Allegations of Abuse
Media reports and preliminary findings suggest the child had been working at the residence for several years and was allegedly subjected to regular physical abuse. Officials said local residents had raised concerns, prompting authorities to act on the complaint.
According to officials, sensing the impending raid, the employer allegedly attempted to conceal the child to avoid detection.
Legal Action and Child Protection
An FIR has been registered against the employer at Dispur Police Station under relevant provisions related to child labour and abuse. After being rescued, the child was taken for a medical examination and subsequently placed in a Child Care Institution for protection, care, and rehabilitation.
Authorities said counselling and further support will be provided as per child welfare protocols.
Guwahati’s Child Safety Concerns
The incident has once again highlighted concerns around hidden child labour in urban households in Guwahati. Officials stressed that domestic child labour is illegal and urged residents to report any suspected cases through helplines or local authorities.
City-based child rights activists said timely reporting by neighbours and residents plays a critical role in preventing prolonged abuse.
Why This Matters for Guwahati
As Assam’s administrative capital, Guwahati witnesses frequent inward migration for domestic work. The case underscores the need for stronger vigilance, community awareness, and enforcement to ensure child protection in residential neighbourhoods.
What Happens Next
Police said the investigation is ongoing, and further legal action will follow based on the evidence collected. Authorities are also coordinating efforts to reunite the child with her family under supervision, while ensuring her safety and rehabilitation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Where was the child rescued from in Guwahati?
The child was rescued from Juripar under the Dispur Police Station limits in Guwahati.
Q2. What action has been taken against the employer?
An FIR has been registered at Dispur Police Station, and an investigation is underway under child protection and labour laws.
