It is hard to accept that concept like ‘human trafficking’ continues to exist even in 21st century. There are so many horrific incidents getting unfolded everyday right in front of our eyes. This day draws our attention towards this harsh reality and invites us to take concrete steps to eradicate this inhuman activity.
The COVID -19 pandemic has devastated human lives, the global economy and educational systems. Given the enormous financial hardship on families, the mass movement of people and the closing of schools, human trafficking can flourish in this current environment. Most likely previous outbreaks seem to have caused rises in human trafficking as parents die, thus leaving children at risk, and the social and economic conditions that lead to trafficking are amplified.
The case of human trafficking is likely to have more in the state of Jharkhand. The ultimate reason being the poor economic conditions of the people. So many men migrate to the major cities in search of Job. The impact of lockdown was really harsh on them. Children’s education was at stake. This alone must have exposed them to crime and other abuses, besides leaving them homeless and therefore many must have been prone to trafficking.
According to The Indian Express from 2014 to July 2020, Jharkhand registered 956 cases of trafficking, including minors and adults and only 593 saw filing of charge sheets. A total of 1900 people were trafficked as per official count and only were repatriated.
We know from the sources that “It has become a very attractive industry and third most profitable business of the world and no country can claim to be free from this menace”. India no doubt is a source of destination of trafficking and usually the down trodden people like STs, SCs, OBC become the victim of trafficking and most of them are women and children.
It is alarming increase in the trade of women, children and men is one of the pressing political, social and economic problem associated with globalization and modern technology. Together, let us be more attentive to the cries and the needs of the victims and survivors of human trafficking. Together may we remain vigilant in our efforts to find and bring to justice those who perpetrate this crime?
Jacob Hembrom