'Imphal West, Bishnupur both source, destination of human trafficking'
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, August 03 2024: A survey report titled, 'Research Insights into the Functioning of Anti Human Trafficking Units in Manipur' conducted by India Working Group Against Trafficking (IWG) has revealed that Imphal West and Bishnupur districts are both source and destination of human trafficking.

In a release, IWG member Montu Ahanthem conveyed that the report found that the main reason behind this is enhanced physical connectivity and mobility within the state, playing a pivotal role in transforming the state into a transit point for trafficking activities particularly for sexual exploitation and bonded labour.

Additionally, the survey highlights that in Bishnupur district, the major challenges of human trafficking are exacerbated by prevalent poverty and limited employment opportunities.

Also, the survey asserts that the non-functional government increases the susceptibility of the younger generation to the risk of trafficking as it directly links to higher dropout rates of school students.

It particularly emphasised that individuals aged between 15-18 years face the highest vulnerability to trafficking in the state.

The survey report includes significant insights, findings and recommendations which aimed at strengthening the Anti Human Trafficking Unit (AHTU) efforts in combating human trafficking in Manipur.

The survey report recommends empowerment of AHTUs highlighting lack of authority granted to AHTUs to handle trafficking cases, contradicting their mandated scope and purpose; strengthening of infrastructure and manpower of AHTUs highlighting that adequate infrastructure is vital for the daily operations of AHTUs involved in preventive measures, investigations and rescue operations and collaboration with other departments to establish linkages arid cooperation between all of them by conducting regular stakeholders meetings.

It further recommends training of AHTU officers to provide AHTU personnel with the necessary knowledge, skills, and tools to effectively identify, investigate and respond to trafficking cases; implementation of a dedicated portal; focusing on preventive measures by linking with NGOs/CBOs and incorporating their experiences into the resource materials to enhance its effectiveness and having regular standardised AHTU meetings.

Copies of the report have been submitted to departments concerned and Manipur Commission for Protection of Child Rights chairperson, the release informed.

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