THE JHARKHAND STORY NETWORK
Ranchi, March 27: In a breakthrough against human trafficking, 25 minors from Jharkhand—forced into exploitation—have been rescued and are on their way home. These children, aged between 12 and 17, were saved from various locations in Delhi and neighbouring states through a coordinated effort by the Integrated Rehabilitation cum Resource Centre, Delhi Police, and local NGOs.
This operation is part of the Jharkhand government’s ongoing mission under Chief Minister Hemant Soren to combat human trafficking and rehabilitate victims, ensuring they receive proper support and protection.
Rescue Efforts and Coordination
Nachiketa, Nodal Officer of the Integrated Rehabilitation cum Resource Center, New Delhi, stated that the rescue operation was based on information provided by two human traffickers from Sahebganj district, Poonam Marandi and Ishwar Turi, during their arrest. Thanks to the tireless efforts of Rahul Singh and Nirmala Khalkho from the centre, these children were successfully rescued from Delhi and its surrounding areas.
The rescued children will arrive safely in Ranchi on Thursday under the leadership of CDPO Khunti, Altaf Khan, and CDPO Sahebganj, Poonam Kumari.
Role of the Jharkhand Government
The Integrated Rehabilitation cum Resource Centre functions as an essential part of Jharkhand Bhawan, New Delhi, under the Women and Child Development Department of the Jharkhand Government. The rescue and rehabilitation efforts were carried out following the instructions of Jharkhand Bhawan’s Resident Commissioner Arwa Rajkamal.
The Women and Child Development Department remains highly sensitive to the issue of human trafficking. As a result of its continuous efforts, hundreds of trafficking victims from Jharkhand have been rescued and rehabilitated. Additionally, they have been provided with benefits under various government schemes.
Future Actions and Support
The Secretary of the Women and Child Development Department, Manoj Kumar, along with Director Kiran Kumari Pasi, has directed District Social Welfare Officers and District Child Protection Officers to take immediate action whenever such cases arise. A team must be dispatched to New Delhi without delay to ensure the children are safely rehabilitated in their homes. Furthermore, rescued children will receive benefits from government schemes, along with continuous monitoring and support.
Rahul Singh and Nirmala Khalkho from the Integrated Rehabilitation cum Resource Center emphasized that their toll-free helpline (10582) is available for reporting cases of child trafficking in Jharkhand. Rescued children will undergo counseling, and their home addresses will be verified through the respective district CDPOs. Following this verification, the District Social Welfare Officers of Sahibganj, Godda, and Khunti will oversee their rehabilitation.
