Jharkhand to have anti-trafficking Act, says CM Raghubar Das

Ranchi, Mar 28: Chief Minister Raghubar Das on Saturday said Jharkhand would soon have an anti-trafficking act that would also allow seizure of land bought through money from human trafficking.

"Chhatisgarh and Delhi have anti-trafficking acts (Placement Agency Act). We will also make an Act in 2015/16 to stop human trafficking that not only exploits people economically but also exploits them mentally and physically," Das said.

He also lauded efforts by the US and NGO 'Shakti Vahini' in combating human trafficking and said the state government would support them in their effort.

He was addressing the second and last day of the 4th annual 'Anti-Trafficking in Persons Conclave' here in the presence of US Consul General Helen LaFave and other dignitaries.

Praising Das' commitment to end trafficking, LaFave said getting registration act for placements agencies is a key part of dealing with trafficking.

Das said, "I have come to know that brokers give their victims only Rs 2,000 to Rs 3,000 (per month as salary) instead of the actual promise of Rs 12,000-Rs 13,000, pocketing the rest amount.

"There are also reports that brokers have purchased land through the ill-gotten money. There will be an Act which will allow seizure of such land. Schools and training centres will be constructed on the seized land," Das added.

He, however, did not elaborate whether the act would also cover seizing property hoarded through other corrupt means.

PTI