The Inspector General of Police, Central Range, Dr Satyajit Naik, IPS, inaugurated a range-level workshop on women empowerment and human trafficking in the presence of the Superintendent of Police, Cuttack.
Senior officers, field functionaries, and stakeholders joined the deliberations.
Speakers stressed that women empowerment and human trafficking are interconnected issues of immense social importance. Women form the backbone of families and society, yet inequality, lack of education, violence, and exploitation continue to challenge progress.
Human trafficking was described as a grave crime involving force, fraud, or deception to exploit individuals—particularly women and children—for forced labour, illegal activities, or sexual exploitation. Poverty, unemployment, lack of awareness, and misplaced trust in fraudulent agents remain key drivers.
The workshop highlighted laws such as the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), the Immoral Traffic (Prevention) Act (ITPA), and the POCSO Act. Odisha Police continues to strengthen Anti Human Trafficking Units (AHTUs), promote the emergency helpline 112, operationalise child helpline 1098, and conduct awareness programmes across rural and urban areas.
Officials emphasised that enforcement alone is not enough. Community participation and women empowerment through education, awareness, and financial independence are vital deterrents. Empowered women can protect themselves, their families, and resist exploitation.
Citizens were urged to support girls’ education, promote respect and safety for women, remain vigilant, report suspicious activities, and spread awareness in their communities.
The workshop concluded with a strong message: “Empowered women are the strongest defence against human trafficking. Stop human trafficking, empower women, build a safe society.”
