Odisha Director General of Police Yogesh Bahadur Khurania inaugurated a state-level conference on human trafficking at Police Bhawan in Bhubaneswar.
He emphasized that human trafficking is not just a crime but a grave violation of human rights affecting women, children, and youth across India.
The DGP called for coordinated efforts among the judiciary, police, labor department, NGOs, and civil society to combat this menace. He urged stakeholders to work together to transform Odisha into a model state in the fight against trafficking.
The Integrated Anti-Human Trafficking Units (IAHTU) and district labor officers play a vital role in investigation and rescue operations. Plans are underway to strengthen IAHTUs with more personnel, specialized training, and technical resources like digital tracking and data analytics.
This year, Odisha Police launched Operation Aneshwan, rescuing 1,209 missing children and 6,667 missing women. The DGP confirmed that the campaign will expand further in the coming months.
Experts like retired DGP P.M. Nair and Migration and Education Director Umi Daniel highlighted evolving trafficking trends and the need for rehabilitation and legal support. Supreme Court advocate Ravi Kant stressed reconnecting rescued children with families and ensuring education and healthcare.
Deputy Commandant Sanjay Kumar from the Ministry of Home Affairs discussed cyber trafficking and the misuse of digital platforms. Amit Kumar Nag from International Justice Mission emphasized the role of local organizations and citizens in prevention.
Senior officers including Vinaytosh Mishra and IG Avinash Kumar addressed the gathering, which included IAHTU officials from various districts.
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