Assam: 14-year-old child labourer rescued from ONGC residential colony in Sivasagar

A 14-year-old girl working as a child labourer was rescued from a residence in the ONGC residential colony at Sivasagar. 

The rescue operation was carried out by a joint team of the district magistrate, the labour department, and the child protection unit.

The child was found at House No. B-149, belonging to Purabi Barua. 

Shockingly, during the raid, the girl was hidden inside a neighbour’s washroom to prevent officials from finding her. After persistent efforts, the rescue team was able to recover the child safely.

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It has come to light that Purabi Barua’s husband, Dipak Deuri, is an ONGC officer, while Purabi Barua herself runs a private educational institute. The couple allegedly kept the minor as a domestic help for several years. Allegations of physical abuse against Purabi Barua have also surfaced.

Officials confirmed that a formal case will be registered against the couple by the Child Welfare Department. The rescue operation involved Ajanta Kakoti from the Child Welfare Committee, Daisy Coming Barua from CHL, Nab Tyne, and officers from the office of the Assistant Labour Commissioner.