64 child labourers rescued in Haridwar

Police have rescued 64 children, all aged below eight, from a hostel at Laltaro area in Haridwar amid allegation that the minors were employed by their "caretakers" to sell flowers at the pilgrimage centre.

Police have rescued 64 children, all aged below eight, from a hostel at Laltaro area in Haridwar amid allegation that the minors were employed by their "caretakers" to sell flowers at the pilgrimage centre.

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Police said six alleged caretakers were arrested in a raid last night and the children rescued from two dharamshalas. They were all aged below eight years.

Most of the children and their employers belong to Bihar.

Police said the children were forced to sell flowers at the ghats of the pilgrim centre and give a share of their earning to employers.

Police are ascertaining if their parents are also involved in the racket.