Combatting child trafficking in India

Human trafficking is commonly thought of as the transportation of a person against their will. But in reality, it encompasses a wide range of crimes including bonded labour, sexual abuse and forced marriage, among many others. But the common thread is the abuse of power and the use of coercion and deception to exploit vulnerable members of society.

One third of all human trafficking victims across the world are children, according to findings by the Global Report on Trafficking in Persons.* Trafficking of children is frequently characterised by several forms of violence; physical violence and abuse or psychological violence such as insults and humiliation, discrimination, neglect and maltreatment. Violence is often carried out at home, or by a known person. Although the consequences may vary according to the nature and severity of the violence inflicted, the short- and long-term repercussions for children are very often grave and damaging.**

Child trafficking is a particularly challenging problem in India where every year, thousands of girls are trafficked across the countries different states.  Many are lured by promises of well-paying jobs in bigger towns or cities and most believe they are beginning a better life. Often, they are sold for meagre amounts for domestic help or for commercial sexual exploitation.

Priya (name changed) grew up in a poverty-stricken household in a small village in Odisha. Priya was in the 7th grade when her father died and the family was plunged into deeper financial difficulties. She was forced to drop out of school and work at a construction site to help support her family. But like many children in her position, Priya was hoodwinked by a neighbour to go to Delhi in search of a better life. There she was sold to a family in the city as a domestic helper, but never received a salary.

But thanks to a tip-off, Priya was rescued by one of our expert partners on the ground, Childline India. She was provided with the therapy and support she needed to help her recover from her ordeal and was housed in a safe home for girls. The police were engaged to track down all the traffickers involved in Priya’s case and all have been convicted. Today, Priya lives a new life free from abuse and exploitation.

*http://www.unodc.org/documents/data-and-analysis/glotip/2016_Global_Report_on_Trafficking_in_Persons.pdf

**http://www.unviolencestudy.org/