The Bangladesh government has given its initial nod to the draft of a law banning child labour.
According to the proposed Bangladesh Labour (Amendment) Act 2018, employing a child below 14 years old will result in a fine of Tk 5,000.
“Children aged between 14 and 18 can be allowed in factories to do light works. Mentally and physically-challenged people cannot be employed in any risky works,” Cabinet Secretary Mohammad Shafiul Alam said after Monday cabinet meeting where the draft got an initial approval.
The proposed law reduces the percentage of workers’ participation required for trade unions to 20 percent from the existing 30.
“The draft bill has been prepared and updated following the observation of the International Labour Organization (ILO). The amended law will be a labour-friendly one,” said Cabinet Secretary Alam.
According to section 47 of the draft, if any female worker gives birth to a baby before informing the authorities, she will get an 8-week leave within 3 days after informing the authorities. If the factory authorities do not allow her to go on leave, they will be fined by Tk 25,000.
Besides, if any one works during festivals, he or she will get a two-day leave and wage for two days after the festival.