Odisha Intensifies Crackdown on Human Trafficking; DGP Calls for United Action

Bhubaneswar: Human trafficking has emerged as one of the most pressing challenges confronting Odisha today, prompting the state police to intensify efforts to combat this grave human rights violation. To strengthen coordination and collective action, the Odisha Police organized a State-Level Conference on Human Trafficking at Police Bhavan, inaugurated by Director General of Police (DGP) Yogesh Bahadur Khurania.

In his address, DGP Khurania described human trafficking as a crime that strikes at the core of human dignity, impacting women, children, and youth the most. “Human trafficking is not just an offence—it is a violation of human rights that deprives individuals of their freedom and future,” he said.

Calling for a united front, he urged close cooperation between the judiciary, police, Women & Child Protection Units, Labour Department, NGOs, and civil society to make Odisha a model state in the fight against trafficking.

The DGP emphasized the vital role of the Integrated Anti-Human Trafficking Units (IAHTU) and District Labour Officers in detection, investigation, and rescue operations. Plans are underway to strengthen IAHTUs with more manpower, training, and digital infrastructure. “We are focusing on using technology, data analytics, and digital surveillance to dismantle trafficking networks and enhance interstate coordination,” he added.

Highlighting recent achievements, DGP Khurania noted that under Operation Anwesan, Odisha Police rescued 1,209 missing children and 6,667 missing women this year. The campaign, he said, will be expanded further to trace and rehabilitate more victims.

The conference brought together several experts and advocates of anti-trafficking measures. Dr. P.M. Nair (Retd DGP, NDRAF) discussed the evolving dimensions of trafficking and the need for stronger prevention strategies. Uma Daniel, Director of Migration & Education, called for coordinated rehabilitation and legal aid for victims, while Supreme Court Advocate Ravi Kant stressed the importance of ensuring education, healthcare, and protection for rescued children.

Sanjay Kumar, Deputy Commandant, Union Home Ministry, drew attention to the emerging threat of cyber-slavery, where individuals are coerced through online deception. Amit Kumar Nag, from the International Justice Mission, underlined the role of civil society and community vigilance in identifying and preventing trafficking cases.