NHRC Issues Notices to States, UTs on Women Coerced into Sex Trade

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has raised alarms over reports of women being coerced into sex trade under the guise of job offers. The NHRC has issued notices to the chief secretaries and police chiefs across all states and union territories, seeking detailed reports on measures taken to combat this issue.

Alarming Reports of Forced Sex Trade

A news report from July 1 highlighted that many women arrested during a raid at a hotel in Ranchi, Jharkhand, were forced into sex work out of desperation. The NHRC noted that these women were often pushed into this situation by relatives or due to family needs, making it difficult for them to escape the control of criminal elements.

The NHRC's statement emphasised that the women involved came from various regions and were lured with false job promises. Their handlers operated from distant locations, indicating a widespread crime network. This necessitates a nationwide crackdown on such criminal activities, according to the commission.

NHRC's Suo Motu Cognisance

Taking suo motu cognisance of the media report, the NHRC issued notices to the chief secretaries and director generals of police in all states and union territories. The commission demanded a comprehensive report on actions taken and planned to address the issue of women being forced into sex trade by anti-social elements.

Despite existing laws and schemes aimed at protecting women, the NHRC observed that criminal elements continue to exploit vulnerable sections of society. This highlights a significant gap in the implementation and enforcement of protective measures for women's safety and welfare.

Children's Health Crisis in Madhya Pradesh

In another concerning development, the NHRC took suo motu cognisance of reports that 30 children fell ill and five died at an ashram shelter home in Indore, Madhya Pradesh. The affected children, aged between 5-15 years, are suspected to have suffered from blood infection and food poisoning.

Most children residing in these ashrams are orphans. The NHRC has issued a notice to the Madhya Pradesh chief secretary, requesting a detailed report within one week. This report should include the current health status of hospitalised children and steps taken to prevent such incidents in the future.

The NHRC's actions underscore the urgent need for improved conditions in shelter homes and stricter enforcement of laws protecting vulnerable populations. Ensuring the safety and dignity of women and children remains a critical priority for the commission.