The correct option is (a).
Explanation
Article 24 of the Constitution prohibits the employment of children in factories, mines, or hazardous employment. To enforce this Fundamental Right and align with the Right to Education Act, the Child Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Amendment Act, 2016 was enacted. This amendment significantly strengthened the penal provisions for employing children and adolescents in contravention of the law.
Statement-wise Analysis:
- Statement 1 is Correct: The 2016 Amendment enhanced the punishment for employers violating the Act. It prescribes imprisonment for a term which shall not be less than six months but which may extend to two years. Under the previous 1986 Act, the minimum imprisonment was three months.
- Statement 2 is Incorrect: The amendment increased the monetary penalty to serve as a stronger deterrent. The fine now ranges from ₹20,000 to ₹50,000. The statement claiming the fine is limited to a maximum of ₹10,000 is factually wrong; ₹10,000 was the minimum fine under the unamended 1986 Act.
- Statement 3 is Incorrect: The penalty provisions apply to any person who employs a child or adolescent in contravention of the Act. The application of the law is not restricted by the size of the establishment or the number of workers (e.g., 100 workers). It applies universally to all employers falling under the purview of the Act.
Key Takeaway:
The Child Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Amendment Act, 2016 made the offence of employing a child cognizable. The punishment includes imprisonment of 6 months to 2 years and/or a fine of ₹20,000 to ₹50,000.