Human Trafficking in India And Corona
Human Trafficking in India and COVID-19
1. Overview of Human Trafficking in India
India is one of the countries most affected by human trafficking, involving forced labor, sexual exploitation, child trafficking, and bonded labor.
Vulnerable groups include women, children, migrants, and economically disadvantaged populations.
Traffickers exploit poverty, lack of education, social discrimination, and weak law enforcement.
2. Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic
Increased Vulnerability:
The pandemic caused massive job losses, economic hardship, and displacement. Many daily wage workers, migrants, and poor families fell deeper into poverty, increasing their susceptibility to trafficking.
Disrupted Support Systems:
Lockdowns and restrictions limited access to shelters, rescue operations, and NGO support, leaving victims more exposed.
Closure of Schools and Institutions:
Children out of school became more vulnerable to trafficking and exploitation.
Rise in Online Trafficking:
Increased internet use led to a rise in online exploitation and trafficking, including child pornography and cyber trafficking.
3. Government and NGO Response
Efforts were made to improve monitoring of vulnerable populations and conduct rescue operations despite challenges.
Awareness campaigns were run to educate about trafficking risks during the pandemic.
Social welfare schemes were enhanced to support vulnerable groups financially.
4. Challenges
Enforcement agencies were overstretched due to COVID-19 duties.
Victims found it difficult to access justice and rehabilitation services.
The pandemic highlighted gaps in social protection and the need for stronger preventive measures.
5. Way Forward
Strengthen social safety nets to reduce economic vulnerabilities.
Enhance digital literacy and monitoring to combat online trafficking.
Improve coordination between government, law enforcement, and civil society.
Invest in education and awareness to prevent trafficking from grassroots.
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