Madhya Pradesh revokes Som Distilleries’ license due to child labor

The Madhya Pradesh government temporarily suspended the license of Som Distilleries, a liquor factory in Raisen district, on June 19. Authorities rescued 59 children from the factory last week after allegations that they were forced to do hard labour there.

Acting on a complaint by the non-profit organisation Bachpan Bachao Andolan (BBA), the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) conducted an inspection on June 15. Inspectors said 39 boys and 20 girls were rescued from the liquor factory. NCPCR chairman Priyank Kanoongo shared pictures online and said the skin on the hands of many children was burnt and peeled due to contact with chemicals and infections.

In a post on X, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav said, “Madhya Pradesh is a model state in the country. So, if you commit a crime here, you will not be spared. Som Distilleries Private Limited in Raisen district has been booked for the heinous crime of child labour and its license has been cancelled. Neglectful officials in connection with this case have already been suspended.”

Earlier, Mr Yadav had ordered the suspension of several officials of the district tax office.

Although an additional FIR was filed on June 16, adding charges of child labour and bonded labour, Raisen police officials have remained tight-lipped about further proceedings.

Kamlesh Kumar Kharpuse, deputy SP of Raisen, said, “The matter is under investigation. We are looking into all aspects.”

Meanwhile, the NCPCR has also demanded a thorough medical examination of the rescued children and new FIRs.

Som Distilleries has attributed the incident to one of its private contractors. The case had an impact on the company’s share value. According to media reports, the company’s shares plummeted after the investigation was ordered.