Assam: Child Labour, Land Misuse Claims Rock Nagaon Brick Kiln

A serious allegation of child labour has surfaced at a brick kiln identified as HR Brick Kiln in the Samaguri circle of Assam’s Nagaon district. The kiln, located in the Rupahihat area, is reportedly operating in violation of government rules and policies.

Locals claim that children are being engaged in various brick-making activities, raising concerns over labour law violations and public safety.

The kiln’s owner, Mainuddin Faraji, is alleged to have continued employing children for tasks such as brick-making and transportation. The kiln management has also reportedly ignored the presence of minors at the site.

Responding to the allegations, the owner told the media that children accompany their parents to the workplace but are not forced to work. He claimed they attend school and only remain at the kiln during their free time.

The HR Brick Kiln is said to be operating on nearly 25 bighas of land in Assamese-dominated villages such as Kalongpar Halowagaon and Nampani Gaon, allegedly without the required government permissions. Its functioning has raised public health and environmental concerns among local residents.

Further allegations suggest that agricultural land has been used without proper reclassification, affecting farming activities in the surrounding areas. Questions have also been raised over how the kiln was allowed to operate near densely inhabited villages without adhering to regulatory norms.

Residents have urged the district administration to conduct a thorough investigation and take strict action if violations including child labour, land misuse and regulatory non-compliance are confirmed.

ALSO READ: Amit Shah to Visit Assam-Bangladesh Border Village Ahead of Assembly Elections