NCW and RPF Join Forces to Combat Human Trafficking in Indian Railways

New Delhi: To curb the cases of human trafficking, the National Commission for Women (NCW) and the Railway Protection Force (RPF) today formalized their commitment by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This strategic collaboration seeks to empower RPF officials with the necessary training and sensitization to effectively tackle the issue of women trafficking within the extensive Indian Railway network.

The signing ceremony, held in New Delhi, was attended by NCW Joint Secretary A Asholi Chalai and RPF Inspector General Sarvapriya Mayank, signifying the official commencement of this joint initiative. The MoU underscores the shared resolve of both organizations to combat human trafficking, particularly the trafficking of women and young girls, who constitute 70% of trafficked victims.

Speaking on the occasion, Rekha Sharma, Chairperson of NCW, emphasized the vulnerability of women to trafficking and the critical role of RPF personnel stationed at railway stations in preventing such crimes. “The vast expanse of the Indian Railway network unfortunately provides traffickers with avenues to exploit vulnerable individuals. Through this partnership, we aim to equip RPF personnel with the necessary tools and knowledge to effectively combat human trafficking and protect the rights of women and girls.”

The MoU outlines several key objectives, including conducting sensitization workshops and training sessions for RPF personnel to enhance their awareness and response to human trafficking incidents. Additionally, awareness campaigns targeting frontline railway staff and the general public will be launched to educate them about the signs of trafficking and how to report such cases.

Under the agreement, RPF personnel will receive ongoing training and sensitization to remain vigilant and proactive in identifying and reporting suspicious activities related to human trafficking. This collaborative effort seeks to strengthen the capacity of RPF personnel, transforming them into an additional line of defense against trafficking.

Expressing optimism about the impact of this partnership, Manoj Yadava, Director General of RPF, highlighted the ongoing efforts of RPF to prevent trafficking of women and girls through railways. He expressed confidence that this collaboration with NCW will further bolster RPF’s capabilities in combating crimes against women.