Rehabilitation of trafficking survivors is a constitutional right, says judge
A district judge in Mysuru said rehabilitating trafficking survivors is part of the right to dignity under Article 21, urging societal vigilance and awareness.
Principal District and Sessions Judge Usha Rani has said that the rehabilitation of human trafficking survivors is not a matter of charity but a constitutional obligation tied to the right to live with dignity under Article 21 of the Constitution.
Speaking at an event organised in Mysuru to mark the World Day Against Trafficking in Persons, she described trafficking as a serious violation of an individual's dignity, physical well-being, and personal freedom. The event was jointly hosted by the district administration, Zilla Panchayat, District Legal Services Authority (DLSA), and other organisations.
Judge Usha Rani noted that the United Nations has observed July 30 as the day of awareness since 2013. She said the occasion should prompt introspection and public awareness rather than remain a mere formality. Referring to this year's theme, 'Trapped behind the scam,' she highlighted the need to educate people about trafficking networks that operate through online scams, cybercrime, and fraudulent job offers.
She stressed that ensuring the physical, psychological, social, and economic rehabilitation of survivors is a positive duty of the state. However, she added that prevention is not the responsibility of the police and government alone, and society must play an active role. She suggested that children be taught to alert parents, teachers, or authorities if they notice suspicious activity involving strangers.
The judge cited a recent joint raid by the DLSA, police, Revenue Department, and NGOs at brick kilns in Devanahalli of Sosale hobli, where 18 adults and seven children were rescued and issued release certificates.
She pointed out that poverty, unemployment, addiction, online fraud, and false promises of film roles or overseas jobs make people vulnerable to trafficking. She noted that over 60% of victims are women and children below 18 years. She also referred to legal provisions that prescribe punishments ranging from ten years to life imprisonment for trafficking offences, and mentioned Section 143 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, the Child Labour Act, and Supreme Court judgments in the Maneka Gandhi, Vishaka, and Prajwala cases.
Deputy Director of the Department of Women and Child Development Nagaraju R. said that government bodies alone cannot fully address bonded labour and trafficking without the support of voluntary organisations. He referred to a recent joint operation in T. Narasipur taluk to rescue bonded labourers and spread awareness, and assured full departmental support for NGO-led initiatives.
Senior Civil Judge Nagraj Siddappa Ankasadoddi, Advocates' Association president Lokesh S., Child Welfare Committee chairman Ravichandra, ACP Rajendra, and Vikasa Samsthe President Varghese Cleatus were present at the event.