Plight of Kanchha Kancchi

Going under the generic name ‘kanchha’ and ‘kanchhi’ hundreds of boys and girls barely out of their teens are employed in Kathmandu households. Most have migrated from rural areas to the capital city in search of a better life. Attracted no doubt by the tinsel and glitter and the prospect of a fast and easy life.

A number of them land up as ‘domestic help’ in lieu of food and lodging by the employer who may even give them a bit of schooling. But their lot is a dismal one and they see no future in working, nay slaving, at odd hours of the day.

They run errands, do the chores and generally make themselves useful. Being young and impressionable they are an easy prey to abuses and other forms of exploitation. All they can do is suffer the pain and humiliation without making a fuss since filling a report could cause trouble and the end of their service.

In case they call sick, have an accident or receive injuries they have to fend for themselves and be on the lookout for any kind of outside help. The agreement with the employer only stipulates for sustenance and a roof overt their head and no extra financial assistance.

Their relation is that of a master and servant and nothing and nobody is allowed to circumvent it. Other members of the family are supposed to abide by this ruling and any pressure is not entertained. If there are other children in the house they maintain a discreet distance and do not engage in any rough play.

As a bonus for their work donations of old, worn- out clothes are usually made. No new set of clothes are bought as they are meant to hold a demeaning position and so do not deserve it. If they show resentment and a diffident attitude are scolded and slapped around. So they have no recourse other than to accept what is on offer.

Years of working in a particular household or at different ones and having to deal with virtual strangers even after close contact does not help in any way – materially, emotionally or socially. Seldom do they get any chance to horse around with others their age and are reprimanded if they break the rule. The hurt feelings and bruises under the eyes a silent testimony to this effect.

There is no provision for their mental growth and have no or little access to an environment which could prove congenial. Far from home and under working conditions hardly fit for someone their age yet they slog on in the absence of a viable option which could provide hope, security and a bit of fun.

Mohan Raut
Maitidevi, Kathmandu