TV channels in trouble over 'child labour'

Producers of nine Indian television shows, who hired child actors, will be dragged to court.

Cases will also be filed against entertainment channels airing these serials including ZEE TV, NDTV Imagine, Colors and 9X.

The programmes in question are 'Chotta Packet Bada Dhamaka' and 'Maayka' on ZEE TV, 'Chotte Ustad', 'Balika Vadhu', 'Jai Krishna' and 'Utaran' on Colors, 'Chak De Bachche' on 9X, 'Baap Bahu Aur Baby' and 'Jasubhen Jayantilal Ki Joint Family' on NDTV Imagine.

A decision to this effect was taken by the labour department, said minister Nawab Malik yesterday (Thursday).

The minister said, "We have given our consent to initiate legal proceedings against the producers who have hired child artists but have failed to comply with the norms."

Under the Act, offenders face simple imprisonment of six months or a fine of Rs. 10,000, or both.

Incidentally the matter was brought up on "World Day Against Child Labour" which is celebrated worldwide.

ZEE TV's new series 'Sa Re Ga Ma Pa - Lil Champs' will soon be unveiling the show's new hosts, children - Dhairya Sorecha and Afsha Musani. Dhairya known for his role in 'Kya Aap Paanchvi Pass Se Tez Hai' and 'Chotta Packet Bada Dhamaka', while Afsha is the five year old who auditioned for 'Lil Champs' in a previous series.

Similarly in the UK, media regulator Ofcom is investigating 350 complaints it received when ten-year-old Hollie Steel broke down in tears live on television. Rules on children featuring on TV could be toughened. The Department for Children, Schools and Families is expected to launch a consultation next month in an effort to change the Children's Entertainment Regulations.