KARACHI: Sindh Governor Kamran Tessori has promulgated an ordinance which prohibits child actors from working during school timings, Dawn.com reported on Sunday.

The ordinance, titled “Sindh Children Drama Industry Ordinance 2023”, stated that it was aimed at safeguarding the educational rights and well-being of children by prohibiting their involvement in dramatic performances during school timings.

“This ordinance recognises the importance of a child’s education and aims to ensure that their academic pursuits are not compromised for other activities,” it said.

The ordinance noted that the Sindh Assembly was not in session and the “governor is satisfied that circumstances exist which render it necessary to take immediate action”.

Therefore, the governor promulgated the ordinance in exercise of powers conferred under Clause (1) of Article 128 of the Constitution. The ordinance said it would extend to the whole province and would come into force at once.

It has defined a child as any individual under 18 years of age, while dramatic performances have been defined as plays, theatrical productions, television shows, films and “any other activities involving acting or performance”.

“No child shall be permitted to participate in any dramatic performance during school timings,” the ordinance said.

Educational institutions are prohibited to grant permission to any student or endorse any dramatic performance involving students during regular school hours, it added.

However, exceptions may be granted in cases where the child’s participation was directly related to the school curriculum and had received prior approval from the school administration.

Exceptions may also be granted for events such as schools plays or cultural performances scheduled outside of regular school hours.

The ordinance stated that any violations may result in penalties for both individuals and institutions involved. “Penalties may include fines, suspension of permits, or other measures deemed appropriate by the relevant authorities,” it said.

Educational authorities, local law enforcement agencies, and child protection agencies have been made responsible for enforcing the ordinance, which added that educational institutions should establish and communicate guidelines to ensure compliance.

Published in Dawn, january 1st, 2024