Rights lessons for domestic helps’ children

SHILLONG: Children of domestic workers are as vulnerable to abuse and harassment as their parents and are often ignorant about legal actions and their rights.
Keeping this in mind, Sadar police station on Saturday organised a ‘Visit Police Station’ programme for a group of 40-odd children of domestic helps.
The police explained to the group about their rights and how the police department works.
The children were also taken to various segments of the police station like lock-up rooms, women police station, traffic branch and they were also shown
how CCTV cameras work.
Sister Wansuk from the North East Regional Domestic Workers’ Movement said, “The visit was of great help as the children were made aware of their rights. It is important that they learn how to protect themselves.”
She also added that there has been a few cases where children of domestic workers had to experience harassment, rape and physical and mental abuses.
“Sometimes they are harassed in work place and sometimes even at home by stepfathers as most of the children have single mothers,” she added.