Employment of a child below 14 years in a hazardous industry.
Explanation
The Right against Exploitation is enshrined in Articles 23 and 24 of the Constitution of India. These articles are designed to protect individuals, particularly vulnerable groups, from exploitation by the State or private individuals.
- A labourer working overtime with double wages. is incorrect: A labourer working overtime with double wages represents a compensated contractual arrangement. It does not fall under begar (forced labour without payment) or involuntary servitude, which are prohibited under Article 23.
- Employment of a child below 14 years in a hazardous industry. is correct: Article 24 explicitly prohibits the employment of children below the age of 14 years in any factory, mine, or other hazardous employment. Therefore, employing a child in a hazardous industry is a direct violation of the Fundamental Right against Exploitation.
- A person voluntarily offering services to a religious institution. is incorrect: Voluntary service offered to a religious institution is an act of free will. Article 23 prohibits human trafficking and forced labour but does not forbid voluntary service. Furthermore, the State can impose compulsory service for public purposes without discrimination.
- Employment of women in night shifts with adequate safety measures. is incorrect: The employment of women in night shifts is permitted under current labour laws, provided adequate safety and security measures are in place. This facilitates the Right to Equality (Article 14) and the Right to Practice any Profession (Article 19(1)(g)) rather than constituting exploitation.
Key Takeaway: Article 24 specifically targets the safety of children by banning their employment in hazardous activities, while Article 23 prohibits traffic in human beings and forced labour.