Stronger Laws but Justice Awaits: Chennai Meet Urges Time-Bound Action Against Child Trafficking

The glaring gap between rescue and prosecution is a major hurdle in effectively tackling crimes against children, and often child victims fall through these gaps and are gripped by child labour, trafficking, marriage and abuse. This discussion took centre stage at the State Level Consultation on ‘Human Trafficking in India: Strengthening Convergence and Prevention Mechanisms’, held in Chennai . The consultation, organized by Just Rights for Children in collaboration with Department of Children Welfare and Special Services, brought together key stakeholders to address the urgent need for stronger convergence, accountability, and prevention strategies in combating child trafficking and other crimes against children.  

Just Rights for Children is the country’s largest network of over 250 NGOs working in 418 districts across the country. The JRC network alone rescued 56,242 trafficked children between 1st April 2024 and 30th April 2025 and initiated over 38,353 legal actions against perpetrators in the country. In Tamil Nadu, 7 partner NGOs of the network work in 5 districts for child protection and child rights and rescued over 3,500 children from child labour, trafficking, and child marriage since 2023. Formal action was initiated in about 500 cases. 

Emphasising that every small step towards combating child trafficking is huge in saving children, S. Santhana Kumar, Senior Civil Judge and Deputy Secretary, Tamil Nadu State Legal Services Authority (TN SLSA) said, “Every small reduction in trafficking is a big win. Even a 10 percent  drop means lives saved. With collaboration from law enforcement, railways, schools, and NGOs, we can create real change—starting from awareness in classrooms to vigilance at railway stations.” 

Meanwhile, Dr. M. Casimir Raj, Member, Tamil Nadu State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (SCPCR), said, “Child trafficking is a crisis of many crimes—a chain, a basket of abuse. Our role at SCPCR is not only to protect but also to study gaps and strengthen child rights through awareness, research, and policy monitoring. Every child is everyone’s responsibility.” 

Echoing similar thoughts, M. Ragavendran, Assistant Security Commissioner, Southern Railway, Chennai, said, “At railway stations, we see its traces every day. Parents, communities, and institutions must become the first line of defense. Laws exist but they mean nothing if they’re not understood and implemented. With strong cooperation between departments and public awareness, we can make Tamil Nadu a model state in ending trafficking.” 

Other officials who were present included Dr. G. Vanitha, Deputy Commissioner of Police, Crime Against Women and Children; and representatives from Department of Children Welfare and Special Services, State Labour Department along with JRC NGO partners in the day-long consultation aligned with the World Day against Trafficking in Persons. 

“India today has a robust legal framework to tackle various forms of human trafficking. However, the real challenge lies in the lack of coordination among stakeholders, inadequate rehabilitation mechanisms, poor conviction rates, and fragmented implementation. The prosecution and conviction processes are painfully slow, often resulting in delayed justice and the revictimisation of survivors. If we are to make our strong laws truly effective on the ground, especially in combating child trafficking, prioritising timely prosecution is absolute,” said Rajeev Bharadwaj, National Coordinator, NGO Partnership, Just Rights for Children.  

During the consultation, the officials reviewed the current legal and policy framework related to human trafficking in India, called for convergence between law enforcement agencies, judiciary, government departments, and civil society for bridging the gaps in enforcement, victim support, and inter-agency coordination; and advocated for a time-bound action plan towards elimination of child trafficking. Notably, human trafficking remains the third largest crime in the world after drug trafficking and arms smuggling, and with children being vulnerable and without agency or voice are often trapped by the traffickers and lured into various kinds of exploitative businesses.

 

“World Day Against Trafficking in Persons” marked with the Launch 616th Anti-Human Trafficking Club (AHTC)

To commemorate World Day Against Trafficking in Persons, the Indian Community Welfare Organisation (ICWO), in collaboration with Mar Gregorios College of Arts & Science (MGC) and national partners Just Rights for Children (JRC), AVA, and OASIS India, launched the Anti-Human Trafficking Club (AHTC) at the MGC campus in Mogappair West, Chennai on 30^th July 2025. This marked the 616th AHTC club across India, advancing the national goal of nurturing informed, youth-led action against trafficking. 

The event began with a prayer and national anthem, followed by a welcome address from Ms. L.S. Sugapriyaka, Coordinator of AHTC at MGC. She emphasized the significance of collaboration, education, and youth-led leadership in creating awareness and a culture of protection. 

Rev. Fr. Matthew Pallikunnel, Secretary of MGC, addressed the gathering, describing trafficking as modern-day slavery affecting over 50 million people globally, with women and children being the most affected. He urged the students and public to remain alert and proactive, emphasizing that even the smallest actions—like reporting suspicious behavior—can make a significant impact. 

Dr. R. Srikanth, Principal of MGC, gave a powerful talk urging a shift from silence to action. He stressed that educational institutions must develop students not only in academics but also in social awareness and moral responsibility. He pointed to the usefulness of helplines like 1098 and the responsible use of social media as essential tools in preventing trafficking and spreading awareness. 

Ms. Titty Elizabeth Phillips, Director of Academics, presented a fact-based overview of trafficking in India. She discussed poverty, social discrimination, and weak enforcement as root causes and encouraged both students and faculty to use their voices to break the silence and restore dignity to those affected. 

The keynote address by Dr. P.M. Nair, IPS (Retd.), an international expert on anti-human trafficking, was a highlight of the event. He warned that “being silent is being complicit,” calling on the youth to raise their voices and take leadership. He revealed that 1,529 engineering graduates from Tamil Nadu were trafficked to Myanmar and Cambodia under false job promises, later being exploited as cybercriminals. He urged students to verify overseas job offers and emphasized, “If you’re unsure, ask us—we will help. But don’t fall into the trap.” 

Dr. Nair also shared the inspiring actions of law students from Ernakulam, who exposed poor sanitation at a labor camp housing Odisha migrants. Their activism led to the construction of proper toilets, demonstrating the real-world power of youth intervention. 

He further highlighted digital grooming, especially among Class 9 and 10 students from corporation schools, where pornographic content is being pushed onto their devices during study searches. This method of desensitization is a tactic used to exploit curiosity and condition victims. Dr. Nair urged all present to report such incidents via the 1930 national cybercrime helpline and practice digital vigilance as part of modern trafficking prevention. 

Students of MGC showcased a poignant street play depicting the emotional and physical impact of trafficking, shedding light on both the trauma and the hope that survivors hold.In a powerful display of unity, 500 students formed a human formation spelling “STOP HUMAN TRAFFICKING”, followed by a pledge ceremony where they committed to staying vigilant, informed, and proactive in their campuses and communities. 

The event was honored by Director Mr. Youreka and the team from the upcoming film Lakshmi Lawrence Kadhal. He addressed the gathering and spoke about the making of the film, sharing that it carries a strong social message similar to the classic Aligal Oivathillai. He mentioned that the movie has come out well and is designed to both entertain and inspire. The film urges youth unity and calls on young people—the future of the nation—not to give space to caste or religious bias, but instead to build a society rooted in equality and mutual respect. 

The film’s heroine, Miss. Vanthana Dharani, addressed the audience and shared in English how cinema and storytelling play a vital role in raising social consciousness and inspiring community action. She spoke about the theme of human trafficking and emphasized the importance of staying aware and united in combating such exploitation. She also invited everyone to support the upcoming film Lakshmi Lawrence Kadhal, stating that it carries a powerful social message that will resonate with all age groups. She encouraged students and faculty to watch the film in theatres and be part of spreading awareness through art and media. 

Special thanks were extended to Dr. Sudha, Head of Department, for her consistent support and involvement, and to Niroshini, Sarah, Taniya, Nivetha, Rajkumar, and others for their outstanding coordination. The contribution of the faculty and staff in organizing the event was deeply appreciated. Students and faculty from CTTE College also participated in the event, showing their solidarity and eagerness to contribute to the anti-trafficking movement. 

This event is not just a milestone for MGC and ICWO—it is a symbol of India’s growing youth-led movement to end trafficking. With awareness, courage, and collaboration, today’s students are leading the change for a safer and more just tomorrow. 

Mr. A.J. Hariharan, Secretary of ICWO, officially launched the AHTC and released an anti-trafficking awareness poster. He emphasized the importance of nurturing student leadership, building resilient communities, and collaborating with experts and law enforcement in this shared fight against exploitation. ICWO’s dedicated helpline for trafficking-related concerns is +91 9087 161 161.

 

Specialized Eye and General Health Camp Organized for Fishermen Community in Chennai

A Specialized Eye and General Medical Check-up Camp was successfully organized on 14th June 2025 at Mullikuppam Community Hall, Srinivasapuram, Pattinampakkam, Chennai – 28. The camp benefitted 112 residents from the local fishermen community, providing them with essential health consultations and screening services.

This community health initiative was a collaborative effort by ACS Medical College and Hospital, United Legal Rights Organisation – ASIA, BASE Trust, and the Indian Community Welfare Organisation (ICWO), aimed at extending healthcare access to marginalized fishing communities and nearby areas.

Mr.A.J.Hariharan, Secretary of ICWO, extended his sincere thanks to Mr.Ravi Ranganathan, Director – Programmes, CBM India Trust and Mr.Sathish Nagappan from CBM India Trust for their invaluable guidance and support in making the camp a success.The camp was inaugurated by Ms.K.Ushakumari, District Women's Team Secretary, Tirupattur. During the inaugural session, Mr. A.J. Hariharan emphasized the significance of bringing medical care to coastal communities that often lack regular access to quality healthcare services.

Community mobilization played a vital role in the camp's success and was made possible through the strong support of the Mullikuppam Srinivasapuram Fishermen Panchayat Sabha and the Fishermen Welfare Association.

While only consultations and basic medications were provided at the camp, patients requiring further care were referred to affiliated hospitals for follow-up treatment.

The organizers extend heartfelt appreciation to the medical professionals, volunteers, and local leaders whose dedicated efforts helped make this camp a meaningful stride toward inclusive and accessible community healthcare.

Chief Minister's Water body Conservator Award – 2025 won by Dr. P. Narayanan

On World Environment Day on June 5, 2025, the Tamil Nadu Forest Department and the Department of Environment, Government of Tamil Nadu, jointly organized the World Environment Day – 2025 celebration at Chennai Trade Centre. 

The grand event was held in the esteemed presence of the Honourable Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, Thiru. M. K. Stalin, and Additional Chief Secretary, Ms. Supriya Sahu, IAS. During the event, Dr. P. Narayanan, the Director, Gramiyam Trust, Karur District, Tamilnadu was conferred with the Best Chief Minister's waterbody conservatory Award in recognition of his outstanding efforts in water body conservation.Along with the award, he also received a reward of 1,00,000 as a token of appreciation. 

Bhuwan Ribhu is First Indian Lawyer to be honoured by World Jurist Association

Eminent child rights lawyer and Just Rights for Children Founder Bhuwan Ribhu has become the first Indian lawyer to be conferred with the ‘Medal of Honour’ by the World Jurist Association (WJA) at the World Law Congress in Dominican Republic. Bhuwan Ribhu has strong connections with Salem district in Tamilnadu as Indian Community Welfare Organisation – I.C.W.O.is a partner of the Just Rights for Children network in the district. Just Rights for Children is the world’s largest legal intervention network of NGOs for child protection—with partners spread across 416 districts of the country.

The World Jurist Association is the world’s oldest association of jurists and since its establishment in 1963, the World Jurist Association has honoured iconic figures such as Sir Winston Churchill, Nelson Mandela, Ruth Bader Ginsburg, King Felipe VI of Spain, René Cassin, and Kerry Kennedy for their contributions to justice and the rule of law.

Elated with this momentous honour conferred to the founder of JRC, A.J.Hariharan of Indian Community Welfare Organisation – I.C.W.O.said, “This is not just an individual honour for Bhuwan Ribhu ji—it is a moment of immense pride for all of us working on the ground to protect every child. His recognition by the World Jurist Association inspires and energises us deeply. With the support of the state government and the district administration, we are committed to making Salem District child marriage free by 2030. We are also determined to ensure that not a single child from our district is trafficked for child labour. This global honour strengthens our resolve and gives us renewed enthusiasm to intensify our efforts for a safer, more just world for our children.”

The event held in Dominican Republic, the event brought together over 1500 legal luminaries and 300 speakers from more than 70 countries. The world’s oldest association of jurists honoured Bhuwan Ribhu for his pioneering work of over two decades, using legal interventions and grassroots mobilisation to advance child protection and child rights.

Speaking on the occasion, Ravi Kant, National Convenor of Just Rights for Children, said, “Our founder receiving the Medal of Honour is a landmark moment not just for our network, but for the entire child rights movement in India. It reaffirms that legal intervention is a powerful tool to protect our children and uphold their dignity. This recognition by the World Jurist Association puts the spotlight on the tireless work of thousands of grassroots defenders across India who are part of the Just Rights for Children network. We are proud, and more importantly, we are motivated to continue our mission to make every district safe and just for children.”

Lauding Bhuwan Ribhu’s work and achievements over the years, Javier Cremades, President of the WJA, stated, "Bhuwan firmly believes that justice is the strongest pillar of democracy and has dedicated his life to the service of justice for children and women who are victims of sexual crimes in his country and globally. His efforts have saved hundreds of thousands of children and women and set legal frameworks that will protect generations to come.  This award is a recognition of his tireless work building a safe, more just world for children through the power of the law.”

Bhuwan Ribhu received the ‘Medal of Honour’ by Eddy Olivares Ortega, Hon'ble Minister of Labor of Dominican Republic, and Javier Cremades, President of the World Jurist Association. Also present on the occasion was Hon’ble Minister of Women of the Dominican Republic Mayra Jiménez. 

Bhuwan Ribhu has led over 60 PILs resulting in landmark rulings in the Supreme Court and various High Courts. His 2011 case led to the Supreme Court defining trafficking in line and his 2013 campaign on missing children triggered a historic judgment changing the way India’s legal system perceived missing children cases. He has driven key legal reforms against child sexual exploitation—both online and offline—and has been instrumental in strengthening laws against child rape and child marriage.

His PICKET strategy to end child marriage, outlined in When Children Have Children, was endorsed by the Supreme Court in its 2024 guidelines. The strategy is also followed by the Indian Community Welfare Organisation – I.C.W.O. which is determined and confident that the district would be free from child marriage by 2030.

 

 

Faith leaders in Salem, Tamilnadu unite with Indian Community Welfare Organisation-ICWO to Combat Child Marriage on Akshaya Tritiya

Indian Community Welfare Organisation-ICWO is a grassroots organization working on Child Marriage Free India (CMFI), a flagship campaign spearheaded by Just Rights for Children (JRC)—a network of over 250 NGOs working across 416 districts to safeguard child rights and end child marriage across India.

In a landmark initiative to prevent child marriages during the upcoming festival of Akshaya Tritiya and the ongoing wedding season, faith leaders from across different religions in Salem have joined the awareness campaign led by Indian Community Welfare Organisation-ICWO, under the banner of Child Marriage Free India (CMFI). With faith leaders publicly pledging their support, Indian Community Welfare Organisation-ICWO is confident that no child marriage will take place in any temple, mosque, church, gurdwara, or other religious establishment across the district.

As part of the campaign, posters and banners have been prominently displayed at places of worship, carrying clear messages that child marriage will not be permitted on their premises. CMFI, supported by Just Rights for Children (JRC), is a national movement committed to ending child marriage in India by 2030 through legal intervention, mass awareness at scale, and community mobilisation.

Just Rights for Children (JRC) is the world’s largest legal intervention network for child protection and the driving force behind CMFI. Over the past two years, through this campaign, over two lakh child marriages have been stopped and more than five crore people have pledged to stand against child marriage.

In Salem, Indian Community Welfare Organisation-ICWO —a partner of CMFI and JRC—has worked closely with district authorities, faith leaders, and communities. Through timely legal interventions, family counselling, and widespread awareness programs, they have prevented/ stopped over 3 lakhs child marriages.

All partner NGOs are implementing the strategic framework outlined in JRC Founder Bhuwan Ribhu’s 2023 book, When Children Have Children: Tipping Point to End Child Marriage, which also aligns with the recent Supreme Court of India’s guidelines (2024) to eradicate child marriage nationwide.

Buoyed by the immense support from faith leaders, A.J.Hariharan, Director of Indian Community Welfare Organisation-ICWO, said, “This is a crucial step forward in our fight to end the heinous crime of child marriage. While the laws exist, what we often lack is widespread awareness. Many people are still unaware that child marriage is a criminal offense in our country. They do not realize that simply attending, performing, or providing any kind of service at a child marriage can lead to imprisonment. However, with the strong support of faith leaders — without whom no marriage can take place — we are confident that this Akshaya Tritiya will be truly auspicious, marked by the absence of any child marriage in the district.”

The director further said that the NGO has explained to the priests and faith leaders that child marriage is impeding rape and no faith can allow such a crime. Without their support, no community can perform a child marriage and so as the faith leaders extend their unwavering support, the NGO is confident that no child marriage will be performed on Akshaya Tritiya in the district this year.

Supreme Court Stays Allahabad HC Order in Attempt to Rape Case; Just Rights for Children Alliance to Represent the Victim

The Hon’ble Supreme Court of India on Wednesday stayed the Allahabad High Court’s controversial judgment that grabbing the breasts of an 11-year-old child, breaking the string of her pyjama, and dragging her beneath a culvert did not amount to attempted rape.  Indian Community Welfare Organisation – ICWO  has termed this decision as a significant step towards the protection of children's rights.

The apex court accepted a special leave petition filed by Just Rights for Children Alliance (JRC) against this verdict and granted permission to the JRCA to represent the victim. Just Rights for Children (JRC) – a network of over 250 NGOs working in 416 districts for child protection and child rights will lead this legal battle to ensure the dignity and rights of the victim are safeguarded and justice is served.

Indian Community Welfare Organisation – ICWO, working for the protection of child rights in Salem & Chennai district, is a  partner of Just Rights for Children (JRC).

A.J.Hariharan, the director of Indian Community Welfare Organisation – ICWO, stated, "If even a single child in the country is a victim of injustice, JRC stands with them. The judiciary is sensitive towards children's rights, as evident from the Supreme Court’s suo-motu intervention in this case. JRC will leave no stone unturned in its efforts to secure justice for this girl. JRC is fighting for a just world for children, and we are committed to eradicating crimes like child marriage, child sexual abuse, and child labor from the district.”

While putting a stay on the Allahabad High Court’s decision, the Supreme Court strongly remarked that the ruling was "shocking and insensitive.”

Taking suo motu cognizance of the matter, Hon’ble Supreme Court’s bench comprising Justice BR Gavai and Justice AG Masih expressed strong disapproval of the insensitivity evident in the High Court’s order, calling the observations “shocking and devoid of any understanding of the law.”

"We are pained to state that some of the observations made in the impugned judgment, particularly paras 21, 24, and 26, depict a total lack of sensitivity on the part of the author of the judgment. This verdict, delivered after nearly four months of deliberation, reflects an inhuman approach that is totally inconsistent with the tenets of law," the bench said.

“For over 3.5 years, no FIR was registered, and more than 3 years of legal proceedings unfolded without initiating a formal investigation. For a poor and vulnerable child victim, this prolonged inaction is a grave injustice. We are relieved that the Hon’ble Court has admitted our SLP, and we remain committed to supporting and fighting for the victim,” said Rachna Tyagi, representing Just Rights for Children Alliance and the victim’s family. 

The trial court had summoned the accused, Pawan and Akash, under Section 376 IPC read with Section 18 of POCSO Act, considering the offence to be an attempt to rape. However, the Allahabad High Court held that the acts of grabbing the breasts of the child and forcefully dragging her beneath a culvert, before fleeing upon the arrival of passersby was not sufficient to establish the offence of “attempt to rape” under Section 376/511 IPC or “Rape” under Section 376 IPC read with Section 18 of the POCSO Act. Consequently, the charges were modified to Section 354(B) IPC read with Sections 9/10 of the POCSO Act.

The Hon’ble Supreme Court issued notices to the Union of India, the State of Uttar Pradesh, and all parties involved in the case. Just Rights for Children Alliance will now spearhead the legal proceedings to ensure that the dignity and rights of the victim are upheld and justice is delivered.

 

 

 

ICWO and TCTG Projects Bring Hope to the Most Neglected Children

 ICWO – TCTG projects achieved greater heights in addressing the underground and most venerable community among trafficking and sexual abuse of minor girls in Chennai and Tamil Nadu. This first initiative in the state with the capacity building of TCTH was able to identify rescue and rebuild the lives of marginalized most venerable children. Within a year the project has reached heights and creating a big impact.

Speaking on the occasion A.J.Hariharan, Founder –Secretary of ICWO expressed his thanks to the committed TCTG team and wishes that the projects continues with a big impact level and serve the unreached children. Mr.A.J.Hariharan stated that this impact will has been possible with the help of DC-Crime against women and children, District Legal Service Authority, Anti Vise Squad, All Women Police Station, Child Welfare Committee, Railway Protection Force, NGO’S and Special Juvenile Police unit child line.

ICWO – Just Rights for Children did tremendous appreciative work in a year

ICWO is a non profit and non government organization build a partnership with Just Rights for Children with biggest projects to prevent incidents of child  labour, child abuse and child trafficking, missing children and child marriage in Salem and Tamil Nadu districts.

ICWO was able to perform well with a capacity building from Just Right for Children in rebuilding the lives of marginalized most venerable children.

During an interview A.J.Hariharan, Founder-Secretary of ICWO expressed his thanks from Just Right for Children team and ICWO team for the great achievements and wished the projects to continue from strength to strength so as to make a impact in Tamil Nadu State.

South Asian Nations Come Together to Discuss Safe Migration to Combat Human Trafficking

In the wake of the ongoing safe migration crisis affecting the world, key stakeholders from nine South Asian countries—representing governments, policymakers, law enforcement agencies, the United Nations, and civil society organizations—came together for the ‘South Asia Consultation Promoting Safe Migration to Combat Trafficking’ in New Delhi. The day-long consultation highlighted the importance of adopting a comprehensive, rights-based strategy, harmonized migration policies across the region, and the necessity for legal and policy reforms aligned with both international and regional standards. It also emphasized that for an organized crime like trafficking, there is an urgent need for a coordinated global response and called for bilateral and multilateral agreements that encourage safe migration and enhance joint investigations into organized crime networks and illegal recruitment agencies. Also present at the consultation were migrants and victims of trafficking from different regions who shared their experiences and struggles, and put forth their suggestions. 

Just Rights for Children, a network of civil society organisations working for child protection and child rights in 39 countries, was the technical partner of the consultation, while the Association for Voluntary Action organized the consultation. 

Emphasizing on the urgent need for a multi-pronged strategy to combat trafficking, BhuwanRibhu, Founder of Just Rights for Children, said, “Trafficking is an organised and economic crime that thrives on exploitation, particularly of children and vulnerable youth. To combat this, we need a multi-pronged strategy: disrupt the economics of trafficking, prosecute and dismantle organised crime syndicates, and enhance intelligence coordination at local, national, and international levels through a global traffickers’ registry.” 

Commenting on the plight of individuals deported to India in shackles, and the fear among others in similar situations, he said that this grim reality highlights the urgent need for a global response against the organised crime of trafficking. “I urge the Indian, the US and other governments to initiate a nationwide crackdown on these trafficker's syndicates. Dismantling trafficking networks requires a coordinated effort across India, the US, and other transit countries. We must analyse the information provided by victims, trace financial transactions, and dismantle the economic syndicates driving this crime to break the cycle of exploitation.” 

He also emphasized that migration is a fundamental aspect of human nature, driven by the pursuit of growth, opportunity, and development. However, it is at the point where exploitation, coercion, and manipulation take hold that migration turns into trafficking. 

Addressing the Consultation, PriyankKanoongo, Member of the National Human Rights Commission and former Chairman of the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR), said, “A critical aspect that needs attention is awareness. Victims must recognize their own exploitation and stand up for their rights. Too often, they remain unaware of the injustices they face. Awareness must reach the last mile of the country, ensuring that the most vulnerable are heard, protected, and empowered.” 

Addressing the session on ‘the Global Compact, Safe, Orderly, and Regular Migration (GCM) and Colombo Process in South Asia, BijayaKumariShreshtha, Executive Committee Member, Migrant Forum in Asia (South Asia), AMKAS, urged the Nepalese government to extend labor destinations from 110 to 160 as her forum has identified Nepali migrants traveling for labor work to 50 more nations where they could be vulnerable to exploitation. InsafNizam, Specialist, Fundamental Principles and Rights at Work, International Labor Organisation DWT for South Asia stressed that to prevent migration, there is a need to ensure decent work and human rights. DeepikaNaruka from United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime pointed that as per the Trafficking in Persons 2024 report, while the trafficking for forced labour is on the rise, the convictions remain limited. Dilli Bahadur Chaudhary, Ex-Chief Minister of Lumbini, Nepal emphasised that civil society organisations, government and private institutions should come together for safe migration. SumithaShaanthinniKishna, Director, Our Journey, Malaysia, talked about the importance of child-centric policies to combat trafficking. Dr. M.M.S.S.B Yalegama, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Sri Lanka and RajendraThapa, Joint Secretary, Human Rights and International Treaty Agreements Division, Nepal emphasised that there is a need for strong regional commitments and coordination among various stakeholders to combat trafficking.

 Dhananjay Tingal, Executive Director of the Association for Voluntary Action, said, “Children are the most affected by migration. Whether they are left behind as their parents move to new destinations or taken along, they bear the greatest burden due to the care-gap that remains. Beyond the hardships of transit, vulnerable children face an uncertain future. Moreover, it is important to understand that from source to transit to destination, trafficking networks operate at all levels. Only through collaboration between law enforcement agencies, community awareness, and action can we ensure that migration is safe and by choice.” 

The Consultation primarily focussed on the some of the key objectives of the GCM such as the vulnerabilities in migration, combating and preventing trafficking in the international context, provision of basic services for migrants, and empowering migrants and society for inclusion and social cohesion. The GCM is the first inter-governmental agreement covering international migration in a holistic and comprehensive manner. 

Some of the other key recommendations made during the consultation for safe migration in the South Asia region include: Strong convergence and partnerships among governments, civil society organizations, and international migration-related bodies; Education and awareness tools, such as community-based surveillance systems, integration of these issues into school curricula, and capacity-building for at-risk migrants; and Employing technology, including digital tools, artificial intelligence, and digital identity systems. 

Other key panellists who participated in the consultation included O.P. Singh, President, Indian Police Foundation; RajendraThapa, Joint Secretary, Human Rights and International Treaty Agreements Division, Nepal; Dr.BileshaWeeraratne, Research Fellow & Head of Migration and Urbanization Policy Research, Institute of Policy Studies, Sri Lanka; Onkar Sharma, Advisor, Ministry of Labour and Employment, Government of India; and AshwatiDorje, Special Inspector General, Maharashtra Police.

 

 

"Old Friends, New Memories: Thiru Vi Ka School Reunion Event"

Thiru Vi Ka Higher Secondary School in Chennai held a grand alumni reunion on 26. 01. 2025, attended by over 400 former students. The event included a delicious lunch, musical performances, and beautiful decorations. Dr. Thiru Vedagiri Shanmuga Sundaram and former Alumni president Thiru Kannan welcomed everyone, while current president Thiru Arul gave a speech and Thiru Vadivel offered thanks. Attendees appreciated the Alumni Association for organizing the reunion and helping them relive their school memories.