Preventing and Countering Human Trafficking

Context

Human trafficking, particularly affecting women and children, is a grave crime that violates basic human rights. The Government of India recognizes the urgency of addressing this issue and has taken significant steps to prevent and combat human trafficking. 

Understanding Human Trafficking

• • Human trafficking involves the illegal trade of humans for the purposes of forced labour, sexual exploitation, or other forms of modern slavery. 
  • It affects both men and women, including children, and transcends national borders, making it a complex issue that requires a coordinated response from multiple stakeholders.

• • Key Statistics

• • • According to the International Labour Organization (ILO), approximately 24.9 million people are trapped in forced labor globally, with a significant portion being victims of human trafficking.
    • The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) reports that women and girls make up 72% of trafficking victims detected globally.

Legal Framework and Penal Provisions

1. Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita (BNS), 2023

The BNS, enacted in 2023, contains crucial provisions related to human trafficking. These provisions aim to hold traffickers accountable and protect victims:

• Section 143: Strict Punishment for Human Trafficking
  • Section 143 of the BNS outlines severe penalties for any offense related to human trafficking. This includes trafficking in persons for various purposes such as forced labor, sexual exploitation, or organ trade.
• Section 144 (1): Combating Sexual Exploitation of Trafficked Children
  • This section specifically targets the sexual exploitation of trafficked children. It imposes stringent punishment on offenders involved in such crimes.

2. Crimes Against Women and Children

The BNS also contains provisions specifically addressing crimes against women and children:

• Sections 95 to 99: Offenses Against Children
  • These sections deal with offenses related to children, including:
    • Hiring, employing, or engaging a child to commit an offense.
    • Procuring a child for illegal activities.
    • Selling or buying a child for purposes of prostitution or other exploitative purposes.
  • The punishment for these offenses ranges from three years to fourteen years of imprisonment.
• Section 139: Kidnapping or Maiming of Children for Begging
  • Section 139 provides penalties against kidnapping or maiming children for the purpose of forced begging.
• Section 141: Importation of Children for Illicit Sexual Exploitation
  • This section addresses the importation of children from foreign countries for sexual exploitation. Offenders face imprisonment ranging from ten years to life.

Government Initiatives and Efforts

The Indian government has intensified its efforts to combat human trafficking:

• Awareness Campaigns and Training:

• • • The government conducts awareness campaigns to educate the public about the dangers of trafficking and how to recognize and report it.
    • Law enforcement agencies receive specialized training to handle trafficking cases effectively.

• Coordination and Collaboration:

• • • Various ministries, law enforcement agencies, and NGOs collaborate to create a coordinated response.
    • The National Anti-Trafficking Bureau (NATB) plays a pivotal role in coordinating efforts across states.

• Victim Rehabilitation and Support:

• • • The government provides rehabilitation and support services to victims, including medical care, counseling, and vocational training.
    • Shelters and safe houses are established to protect and assist survivors.

• International Cooperation:

• • India collaborates with other countries to combat cross-border trafficking.
  • Bilateral agreements and information-sharing mechanisms enhance efforts to rescue victims and prosecute traffickers.

Conclusion

Human trafficking remains a significant challenge, but the Indian government’s commitment to prevention, legal reforms, and victim support is commendable. By enforcing strict penalties and promoting awareness, we can collectively work towards eradicating this heinous crime and ensuring a safer future for vulnerable individuals.

Source: PIB

UPSC Mains Practice Question

Q. Human trafficking remains a grave violation of human rights and a significant challenge to governance and law enforcement in India. Critically examine the existing legal framework and policy measures in place to combat human trafficking. What further steps can be taken to effectively address this issue?” (250 words)