The Government is considering a significant increase in fines imposed on individuals found guilty of employing children, with penalties expected to rise up to Rs 100,000 under proposed legal amendments.

The proposal has been submitted by the Minister of Labour as part of revisions to the Employment of Women, Young Persons and Children Act, according to official sources.

The amended bill has already been presented to Parliament and published in the Gazette.

Under the proposed changes, individuals found guilty of employing a child in any public or private industrial activity will be liable to a fine of up to Rs  100,000, following conviction.

The current maximum fine under the existing law is Rs 10,000.

The revised legislation also provides for imprisonment of up to 12 months, in addition to or in place of the fine, for those convicted of employing persons under the age of 18.