Statement by India under Agenda Item 3 : ID with SRSG on ‘Violence against children’, at the 58th regular session of the Human Rights Council (24 February – 4 April 2025) delivered by Mr. Mohammed Hussain K.S., Counsellor & Legal Adviser, Permanent Mission of India to the United Nations, Geneva, on 12 March 2025

Mr. President,

We thank the Special Representative for the presentation of her report with a focus on combating child trafficking. 

Ending violence against children remains a high priority for the India. India has transitioned from child welfare policies to a rights-based approach for a holistic child protection system.

In the fight against child trafficking, India has made significant progress through legal reforms, increased awareness, rescue operations, and international collaboration. Several legislative measures, such as the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act 2015, and the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act 2012, address this issue.

Our comprehensive interventions include – public awareness campaigns through various community engagement programs especially in rural areas, leveraging technology tools such as Missing Children Tracking System (MCTS) in search and rescue operations, cooperating bilaterally with countries in the region to address cross-border trafficking. Operation Muskaan is the flagship initiative by the Ministry of Home Affairs aimed at rescuing children from trafficking. 

Efforts have also been made to ensure that trafficked children are rehabilitated through various programs, including educational and psycho-social support.

Mr. President

While significant progress has been made, particularly in areas of awareness generation, legislative reforms and rescue operations, there is still much work to be done. How could we foster greater international collaboration to deal with this menace? 

I thank you.