ISLAMABAD, June 12: The incidence of child labour is on the rise with government figures showing an increase in the number of labourers from 3.3 million in 1999 to 3.6 million in 2003, while unofficial statistics put the number at eight million.

According to a statement issued by the Society for the Protection of the Rights of the Child (Sparc), the International Labour Organization (ILO) and International Programme for the Elimination of Child Labour (IPEC) have chosen 'Domestic Child Labour' as the theme for the World Child Labour Day.

According to the labour ministry and ILO, 2.4 million boys and 0.9 million girls are involved in child labour. Half of these children are below 10 years and make up for one quarter of unskilled workforce.

The statement said almost 87 per cent were illiterate. Majority of the child labourers are working as bonded labourers in agriculture sector, brick kilns, tanneries, carpet industry and roadside hotels. Domestic child workers, mainly comprise girls, who are vulnerable to all types of exploitation ranging from working around the clock to being physically and emotionally tortured and sexually abused by the employer.

Sparc's research coordinator Zarina Jilani said: "Child domestic labour is highly prevalent in the country, but remains invisible because it is hidden behind the four walls of the house.

"These children are forced to work long hours with very little or no remuneration. Besides there are no laws to regulate their work and are therefore at the mercy of their employers."

It demanded the government to include domestic child labour in the national list of worst forms of child labour and notify the list under the Employment of Children Act 1991 or formulate a separate law to regulate domestic child labour. It also called for a total ban on child labour and ensure free, quality and compulsory education for every child.

The minimum age of employment in the worst forms should be raised from 14 to 18 years and vigilance committees under the Bonded Labour System (Abolition) Act 1992 be reconstituted.