Dibrugarh: The National Commission for Women (NCW) on Thursday expressed serious concern over the growing incidents of human trafficking in several parts of Assam, particularly in vulnerable regions such as tea garden areas.
Speaking to reporters in Dibrugarh, NCW chairperson Vijaya Rahatkar said human trafficking continues to pose a major challenge in the state. “In some areas of Assam, human trafficking has been going on and it is a matter of concern for the people of the state. Trafficking has also been prevalent in states like Jharkhand, and it is necessary to stop it on a large scale,” she said.
Rahatkar highlighted that women and children are the primary victims of trafficking and noted that railway routes are frequently used by traffickers. She raised concerns stating that trafficking happens right in front of the eyes, but people fail to recognise it. All stakeholders involved in such cases, she stressed, need proper training and awareness.
On Wednesday, the NCW organised a conference on anti-human trafficking in Dibrugarh in collaboration with personnel from the Railway Protection Force (RPF). Emphasising the role of railway staff, Rahatkar said ticket collectors, service providers and other railway personnel play a crucial role in identifying and preventing trafficking.
“We are working on how to identify traffickers and stop trafficking by creating awareness. Those associated with railways are extremely important in this effort,” she said.
Rahatkar also acknowledged the support of various security agencies in combating the crime. “We are getting a good response from the public. Agencies like the RPF, BSF, CISF and the police are actively helping us. However, the modus operandi of traffickers keeps changing every day, which is a serious concern,” she added.
Human trafficking cases have reportedly been increasing in tea garden areas of Assam, where traffickers often target vulnerable sections of society.
A police official from Tinsukia district said that incidents of child trafficking have risen in tea garden areas. “In most cases, traffickers lure parents and take away children, who are then sold or sent to other states,” the official said.
In recent operations, the RPF rescued several minors from Tinsukia railway station and arrested traffickers who were allegedly planning to take them to other states under the pretext of employment.
“Most cases of human trafficking take place through railway routes. In many instances, we have arrested traffickers and rescued women and children. Close coordination among agencies is essential to curb such crimes,” an RPF official said.
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