Jharkhand HC Seeks Centre's Response On Steps Taken To Curb Human Trafficking To Other Countries Through India [Read Order]

Expressing serious concern over trafficking of foreign nationals to other countries through India, the Jharkhand High Court, on Tuesday, sought to know the steps being taken by the Centre to prevent this.

The Court was hearing a Petition filed by one Mr. Amir Hussain, alleging that two Bangladeshi girls, one of them being a minor aged 17 years, were being trafficked through Mumbai to Dubai. However, they were rescued during a train journey from West Bengal and their statements have since been recorded under Section 164 of the Code of Criminal Procedure.

Examining their statement, Justice Ananda Sen noted that their account revealed the gravity of the situation, and observed, "After going through the statement of victim girls recorded under Section 164 Cr. P.C, it gives an impression that a well organized racket is functioning internationally to traffic girls from Bangladesh to other countries through India. This is a matter of grave concern where Indian territory is being used for trafficking foreign nationals (minor girls) to different countries, in this case UAE. The girls were made to cross the border, definitely, illegally where the authorities failed to stop this trafficking."

Justice Sen further noted that the Police personnel at West Bengal allegedly did not take any action despite being approached by the two girls and intervened only after the passengers of the train interceded.

He then directed, "This is a very serious issue, which needs immediate attention of the Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India. Thus, I direct the Assistant Solicitor General of India, Mr. Rajiv Sinha, who is in Court, to file an appropriate affidavit stating as to what action the Ministry of Home Affairs is taking or is contemplating to take, so that this type of trafficking of humans from neighboring country is prevented."

The Court further directed Jharkhand State Legal Services Authority (JHALSA) to ensure that proper legal aid is provided to the two girls. The matter will now be heard after six weeks.

Read the Order Here