In a shocking incident, 27 girls, including minors, were rescued from a human trafficking ring on Vivek Express near New Tinsukia Junction. Law enforcement agencies acted swiftly, arresting five traffickers linked to the organized racket.
This incident highlights the deep-rooted trafficking crisis in Northeast India, where young girls are often targeted due to socio-economic vulnerabilities.
Human Trafficking on Vivek Express: A Hidden Route Exposed
Coordinated Rescue by GRP and Assam Police
The rescue took place after a tip-off alerted the Government Railway Police (GRP). Acting with the Assam Police, they boarded the Vivek Express—one of India’s longest trains—and stopped the trafficking attempt near New Tinsukia Junction.
The traffickers were posing as relatives of the girls, who were being moved out of the state. Authorities noted unusual behavior and verified that the girls were not traveling with family consent.
One 15-year-old survivor said, “They told me I would get a good job. But once on the train, they took my phone and stopped me from contacting home.”
Arrested Traffickers Linked to Wider Network
The five suspects arrested are part of a wider trafficking network that stretches across Assam, West Bengal, and Delhi. During the investigation, police found:
- Multiple mobile phones used for coordination
- Forged Aadhaar and ration cards
- Train tickets for victims and handlers
- Digital chats suggesting pre-arranged “deliveries”
Authorities believe the group had previously trafficked dozens of girls through a similar route using long-distance trains like the Vivek Express and Brahmaputra Mail.
How Northeast India Is Targeted
Human trafficking on Vivek Express is not an isolated case. Northeast India, with its porous borders and economic instability, has become a prime target for traffickers.
According to NCRB data, Assam has consistently ranked high in the number of missing children and women due to:
High unemployment
Low literacy in rural areas
Internal conflict and displacement
Weak border surveillance
Local NGOs like Impulse NGO Network and Childline India have long warned that traffickers promise education, jobs, or marriage to lure girls away from their homes.
What’s Next for the Rescued Girls?
The rescued girls are now in the custody of child welfare authorities in Tinsukia. They will receive:
- Psychological counseling
- Legal aid
- Access to rehabilitation programs
Authorities are contacting their families and will assist with safe reintegration into their home communities.
Legal charges filed include:
- Sections 370/370A of the IPC (Human Trafficking)
- Sections of the POCSO Act
- Violations under the Juvenile Justice Act
Officials have confirmed that digital evidence and survivor testimonies will form the basis of the charges.
Ongoing Trafficking Crisis Needs Action
Government and Citizen Efforts Must Strengthen
Despite improved awareness, traffickers still succeed in targeting girls through manipulation and deceit. This case shows the importance of:
- Vigilant rail and transport policing
- Community-level education
- Stronger punishment for traffickers
If you suspect any case of trafficking, report immediately to:
- Anti-Human Trafficking Helpline: 1098
- Local police stations or NGOs like Snehalaya
More Awareness, More Vigilance Needed
Human trafficking on Vivek Express is a grim reminder that trafficking doesn’t always happen in the shadows — it can take place in broad daylight, in public transport, right under our noses.
Railway staff, passengers, and even vendors must be trained to identify red flags and report them immediately. More importantly, rural communities need awareness campaigns to inform youth and parents about trafficking tactics.
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