The recent release of children from the evil clutches of bondage and abuse of embroidery garment manufacturers, in pockets of Delhi, has vindicated the long time stand taken by Bachpan Bachao Andolan and its activists. We had pioneered such raids and our efforts had borne fruit. In 2003 and 2004 in two separate raids, our activists had been instrumental in getting 24 children released from garment manufacturers in Okhla and Govindpuri area of Delhi. Those released were in the age group of 9 to1 3 years, doing invisible work from morning to late evening and getting almost negligible remuneration (Rs 20-50 per week). All of them had been brought to the city , by middlemen, who had lured them with big promises of regular, decent jobs and a better quality of life. In reality, they were treated brutally, confined to ill ventilated rooms for days without proper food and clothing. When they fell sick they were just thrown out. Our activists tracked them out, surveyed the areas and meticulously planned the raid and rescue operations. We did not rest even after the release of the children, as we struggled to obtain the release certificates from the Labour Commissioners and Sub Divisional Magistrates. We have continued putting pressure on the Police and other authorities to maintain strict vigil and help in releasing and rehabilitating more children. It is estimated that approximately 50,000 children are still in bondage.

It is heartening to note that our raids and pressure building tactics have yielded results. The Special Cell of the Delhi Police conducted raids and helped release 126 children from embroidery units in Delhi in the second week of April 2005.