Question

In which landmark case the Apex Court addressed the systemic issue of child labor, focusing on constitutional rights and the role of the state in protecting children?

• A. M. C. Mehta v. State of Tamil Nadu (1996)
• B. Sujeet Kumar v. State of Bihar (2025)
• C. Bachpan Bachao Andolan v. Union of India (2011)
• D. Vishal Jeet v. Union of India (1990)

Hint:

The M. C. Mehta cases are a series of landmark PILs on environmental and social issues. The 1996 case is famous for its detailed judgment on child labor.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

The case of M.
C.
Mehta v.
State of Tamil Nadu (1996) is a landmark PIL that dealt specifically with the issue of child labor in hazardous industries, particularly the matchstick and fireworks industries in Sivakasi, Tamil Nadu.
The Supreme Court took a comprehensive view, interpreting Article 24 (Prohibition of child labour), Article 39 (DPSPs), and Article 45 (Education).
It issued a wide range of directives to the government for the eradication of child labor, including conducting surveys, ensuring education for the children, and creating a Child Labour Rehabilitation-cum-Welfare Fund.