Bhubaneswar, March 17: Human trafficking is one of the most heinous social evils, urging a strong and unified response to combat it, said Dr. Satyajit Naik, IPS, Inspector General of Police, Central Range, Cuttack.
Speaking at a workshop on human trafficking and women’s empowerment held in Paradeep, Jagatsinghpur, Dr. Naik stressed the need for robust collaboration between police, administration, NGOs, and community organizations to effectively rescue, rehabilitate, and reintegrate trafficking victims. He also highlighted the importance of raising awareness about women’s rights and the legal avenues available for their protection.
The workshop served as an important platform for discussions on the causes, impact, and prevention of human trafficking. Key topics covered included various forms of trafficking, such as forced labor, sexual exploitation, child trafficking, bonded labor, and organ trafficking. Experts also delved into the legal frameworks under the BNS, BNSS, and the Immoral Traffic (Prevention) Act, among other relevant laws, to shed light on the mechanisms available to tackle this crime.
Police officers from across districts within the Central Range attended the workshop, underscoring its significance in enhancing inter-district cooperation and building capacity to address trafficking and crimes against women.
Keynote speakers Dr. Namrata Chaddha, former Member of the Odisha State Commission for Women, and Bidyalok Mohapatra, Advocate at the High Court of Odisha, shared insights on effective investigation and prosecution strategies, while emphasizing the protection of trafficking victims' rights. Their addresses underscored the critical role of legal expertise in addressing trafficking cases.
The workshop’s technical session on women’s empowerment featured eminent speakers such as Dr. Rina Routray, Columnist and Social Activist, Roseann Rajan, Advocate, and Rashmi Ranjan Das, DySP, HRPC, Jagatsinghpur. They discussed legal rights, protective measures, and the importance of strengthening community support systems for women.
The event was attended by J. Sonal, Collector of Jagatsinghpur, and Ankit Kumar Verma, Superintendent of Police, Jagatsinghpur, both of whom reaffirmed their commitment to tackling these pressing issues.
In addition to the workshop, Dr. Satyajit Naik inaugurated a Child-Friendly Police Station at Paradeep Lock Police Station. This new facility is designed to provide a safe, supportive environment for children, particularly those who are victims or witnesses in criminal cases.
A Police Aid Post was also inaugurated under the Abhayachandrapur Police Station to improve police presence, enhance crime prevention, and offer more accessible services to the local community.
The workshop concluded with a valedictory session that reinforced the Central Range Police’s ongoing commitment to combating human trafficking, empowering women, and advancing community-oriented policing efforts.
