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.
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