Deogarh, June 16: A minor girl from Sharanakot village under Saida Gram Panchayat in Deogarh district was rescued on Sunday after an alleged trafficking attempt involving her own father and brother.
According to sources, a group of youths from Khuntadihi village under the Saruali Gram Panchayat arrived at the girl’s house in a Bolero. It is alleged that the girl's father and brother were attempting to send her away with the group. When the girl refused to go, she was reportedly threatened and pressured to abide by.
Displaying courage, the minor managed to escape and informed a local Anganwadi worker about the incident. Acting swiftly, the Anganwadi worker alerted members of the village-level Child Marriage Prevention Forum. They ensured the girl's safety and contacted the District Child Protection Unit.
Officials from the protection unit arrived at the scene and rescued the girl. She is currently in safe custody and is being provided with counselling and care.
Meanwhile, the accused individuals fled the scene in the Bolero and are currently absconding. Police have launched an investigation and are making efforts to locate and apprehend the culprits.
District officials lauded the girl’s quick thinking and the timely intervention by the Anganwadi worker and forum members, which helped prevent a potential case of trafficking or forced child marriage.
