Statement by India under Agenda Item 3: Interactive Dialogue with Special Rapporteur on Trafficking in persons, especially women and children at 44th Session of the Human Rights Council (30 June – 21 July 2020), delivered by Mr. Vimarsh Aryan, First Secretary, Permanent Mission of India, (Geneva, 03 July 2020) Statement by India under Agenda Item 3: Interactive Dialogue with Special Rapporteur on Trafficking ..
  • Home > 44th Session of Human Rights Council (30 June – 20 July 2020) > Statement by India under Agenda Item 3: Interactive Dialogue with Special Rapporteur on Trafficking in persons, especially women and children at 44th Session of the Human Rights Council (30 June – 21 July 2020), delivered by Mr. Vimarsh Aryan, First Secretary, Permanent Mission of India, (Geneva, 03 July 2020)

Statement by India under Agenda Item 3: Interactive Dialogue with Special Rapporteur on Trafficking in persons, especially women and children at 44th Session of the Human Rights Council (30 June – 21 July 2020), delivered by Mr. Vimarsh Aryan, First Secretary, Permanent Mission of India, (Geneva, 03 July 2020)

Madam President,

We thank the Special Rapporteur for the presentation of her final thematic report and take note that she has emphasized the importance of addressing trafficking in persons as a human rights and a social justice issue, rather than a mere security concern.

2. Therefore, it is particularly noteworthy that the SR has recommended a human rights based approach to address all aspects of the problem including acts of trafficking, rights, early support and importance of social inclusion of victims and potential victims. We note that the SR has called for an innovative approach to trafficking in mixed migration in particular for women and children and has made recommendations in addition to the Recommended Principles and Guidelines on Human Rights and Human Trafficking.

Madam President,

3. We would like to hear her views on the current pandemic situation and its effect on trafficking, especially of women and children, globally.

4.. The Government of India has accorded highest priority to combat trafficking. It has adopted a multi-pronged, multi stakeholder approach to tackle this multi-dimensional problem. These holistic steps and strategies are not restricted to direct intervention against trafficking in isolation but also provides necessary support for social inclusion.

5. India's anti-trafficking legislative framework is based on Article 23 of our Constitution which prohibits trafficking and forced labour. India has a strong and effective legislative framework to address the issue of trafficking, including prohibition of bonded and child labour, protection of children and women from sexual exploitation, transplantation of human organs, and, selling and buying for the purpose of prostitution.

6. A Comprehensive Scheme titled 'Ujjwala' meaning 'Bright Future' has been introduced to facilitate rescue, rehabilitation and reintegration of the trafficked victims. It also facilitates repatriation of cross-border victims to their country of origin. Special drives called Operation Smile are conducted regularly for rescuing trafficked children. Innovative usage of information technology such as Track Child and Khoya Paya portals have been remarkably successful.

7. In order to strengthen regional cooperation, India has signed the SAARC Convention on Prevention and Combating Trafficking in Women and Children and Bilateral Memoranda of Understanding with the Government of Bangladesh in 2015 and with the UAE in January 2017. 

8. India stands firmly committed to work with the international community in this battle against trafficking in persons. 

Thank you, Madam President.