Fighting human trafficking
Human trafficking
is one of the most
demeaning violations
of individual rights
State Minister for Women and Children Affairs Meher Afroz Chumki while inaugurating a project titled Strengthening Community for Preventing Child Trafficking and Networking in the capital recently urged the concerned authorities to build a strong and united resistance against human trafficking. It is sad but true that there is no let-up in human trafficking in the country. According to sources, thousands of people, mostly women and children, have been trafficked through the sea and land routes in the last few years.
But it is surprising to note that in collaboration with a section of law enforcers, human trafficking gangs are engaged in this heinous practice. And these gangs are carrying on their sinister activities in different parts of the country including the capital.
Over the years thousands of people have been trafficked through the sea routes. Lured by lucrative job prospects, many impoverished people were caught in traps laid by the gangs. Most of the victims bore the brunt of slavery and wretchedness. Inhuman torture perpetrated by the human traffickers and their agents caused deaths of many innocent ones. What is worrying is that the women and girls who are victims of human trafficking are repeatedly raped by members of human trafficking gangs at home and in foreign lands.
They also suffer from traumas stemming from physical and mental torture. It is very unfortunate to note that no tangible action has been taken against the members of the syndicates involved in human trafficking. The big-shots involved in this heinous crime remain untouched. If this trend continues, the image of the country will take a beating.
The governments of Malaysia and Thailand launched a crackdown on the human traffickers in the recent past. Those earned the appreciation of the people of those countries. It is high time for our government to rein in the human traffickers. There is no scope for foot-dragging.
The criminals must be identified and punished. On the other hand, the victims of the crime need proper rehabilitation. They should be provided financial, mental and moral support to overcome the trauma. Besides, awareness campaign on the prevention of human trafficking is very essential. Members of the law enforcement agencies and civil society have vital roles to play in this regard.
