GUWAHATI, July 31 - The Assam State Commission for Protection of Child Rights, in collaboration with the British Deputy High Commission, Kolkata, organised a daylong interactive group discussion among stakeholders on World Day against Trafficking in Persons, with special focus on children, here yesterday.
Speaking on the occasion, ASCPCR Chairperson Dr Sunita Changkakati welcomed all the stakeholders and laid stress on understanding the growing evil of human trafficking and the emerging waves of this dark trade, which threatens the lives of innocent women and children.
Addressing the house, IGP of CID Surendra Kumar presented an analysis of the trafficking scenario in Assam.
The discussion proceeded with screening of a film titled Taken on trafficking survivors of Assam, directed by Angshu Kotoky. Taken, as the title suggests, explores remote villages of lower Assam where almost each household has lost one family member to this vicious trade of human trafficking. One brave woman, who is a survivor of trafficking and shares her experiences in the film, was also present amongst the stakeholders during the discussion.
Special DG (Railways) R Chandranathan spoke about his experiences as a police officer in various parts of the country. He elaborated on the desire of individuals to seek a good life and the paradoxes of a good life, which often involves a heavy price to be paid.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks from Shahida Khan, Deputy Mission Head, British Deputy High Commission, Kolkata, who appreciated the interactive discussion among stakeholders and the efforts of the Assam State Commission for Protection of Child Rights for providing an open platform to everyone present to share their views.
The dialogue for stronger implementation of policies and a need for inter-agency collaboration emerged as the way forward from the discussion. The programme was attended by stakeholders from police, legal services authority, social welfare, child line, UNICEF civil society organisations, professors and students.
