TFP Bureau, Raipur, February 9, 2025 : The Chairman of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), Hon’ble Mr. Justice V. Ramasubramanian, emphasized the growing challenge of human trafficking in the digital era during the inaugural session of the conference titled ‘Combating Human Trafficking in the Digital Age.’ Organized by the NHRC and Hidayatullah National Law University (HNLU), the event brought together experts to discuss the complexities of trafficking, exacerbated by the anonymity and reach of digital networks.
Justice Ramasubramanian urged for robust national and international efforts to address human trafficking, noting the alarming rise in such crimes fueled by digital platforms. “We need to increase awareness on digital navigation and promote international cooperation to combat this organized crime,” he stated. He also called on the younger generation to adopt safe practices while using the internet, particularly on social media.
Chhattisgarh’s Excise Commissioner, Ms. R. Shangeetha, who was the guest of honor, shared her experiences in combating human trafficking and highlighted the gaps in conviction rates due to procedural issues. She encouraged law students to take an active role in raising awareness and supporting government efforts to assist victims.
HNLU Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Vivekanandan provided historical context, tracing human trafficking from colonial times to its present-day manifestation, often driven by poverty, conflict, and the exploitation of vulnerable populations. He underscored the need for an effective legal framework that addresses the unique challenges posed by digital technology.
The conference’s first panel, titled “Role of the Internet in Facilitating Human Trafficking and Migrant Smuggling – A Legal and Regulatory Perspective,” discussed how the internet complicates enforcement efforts. Panelists, including former IAS officer Ms. Bhamati Balasubramaniam and police officials from Chhattisgarh, recommended strengthening cybercrime units and enhancing surveillance to tackle trafficking.
Key recommendations included:
- Expanding AI and cyber surveillance to track traffickers.
- Strengthening victim rehabilitation programs to prevent re-trafficking.
- Mandating cooperation from internet service providers (ISPs) to monitor trafficking-related activities.
The second panel focused on preventive strategies, emphasizing the role of technology, law enforcement, victim support, and community engagement. Experts called for stronger laws, more victim-centric policies, and increased community vigilance to prevent trafficking.
Key recommendations from this panel included:
- Leveraging technology like AI and geo-tagging to track trafficking activities.
- Strengthening victim support services, including safe houses and psychological care.
- Enhancing international cooperation to combat cross-border trafficking.
The valedictory session was addressed by Shri Joginder Singh, Registrar Law at NHRC, who highlighted the need for a victim-centered approach to tackling human trafficking. The event also featured the signing of an MOU between HNLU and Shri Rawatpura Sarkar University on academic collaboration. The conference concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. Kiran Kori, Head of HNLU’s Centre for Human Rights.
