The trafficking network's complexity necessitates a more comprehensive and coordinated approach
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Women trafficking has become a thriving business in Assam, with the illegal trade taking root across various sectors, from agriculture and hospitality to domestic work and sex trade. Victims often find themselves trapped in situations of exploitation and abuse, with little hope of escape.
But how exactly does this trafficking operate, and why is it thriving despite increased awareness and legal actions? The rise in trafficking is fuelled by a complex network of deceit and coercion. Traffickers exploit vulnerable individuals from impoverished or disaster-stricken areas with false promises of employment or marriage, only to trap them in forced labour or sexual exploitation.
Recent police raids have highlighted these issues. For instance, in June, an operation in Guwahati led to the arrest of six individuals at a spa salon in Noonmati, suspected of running a prostitution racket. Similar raids last year targeted several spa owners for their alleged roles in trafficking.
These incidents expose a troubling trend: The exploitation of women and the booming underground market for human trafficking. Spa salons, which are supposed to offer relaxation and wellness services, are increasingly becoming fronts for illegal activities. The use of such businesses to facilitate prostitution and human trafficking underscores the sophisticated methods traffickers use to evade detection and exploit vulnerable individuals.
Traffickers use various methods to lure victims, often targeting vulnerable populations.
Talking to GPlus, Rajiv Kumar Sharma, Chief Functionary of the Global Organisation for Life Development (GOLD) said, "Trafficking is an underground business that preys on those most in need."
“Women are mostly trafficked from flood-affected areas or other vulnerable regions,” Sharma explained. “In these areas, traffickers exploit the desperation of women by offering false promises of financial support or marriage proposals.”
Sharma highlighted that traffickers often employ both men and women. Interestingly, some female traffickers were once victims themselves. “These women, having been trafficked previously, become part of the trade. They lose their emotions over time and view trafficking as a business,” he noted.
The advent of online platforms has further complicated the fight against trafficking. Traffickers use the internet to find and target potential victims, leveraging websites and social media to facilitate their operations. “There are online websites and networks where these criminals conduct their business,” Sharma added. “They find and lure their targets through digital means.”
"Two key factors are driving the rise in human trafficking,” says Sharma. “The first is poverty. Many victims come from extremely poor backgrounds, making them more vulnerable to exploitation. The second factor is the lack of opportunities. When people have limited options, they are more likely to fall prey to traffickers who promise better prospects.”
Sharma adds, “Another significant driver is the demand for sex tourism and escort services." This demand fuels the trafficking industry, as traffickers exploit it to increase their profits. The intersection of poverty, limited opportunities, and high demand creates a perfect storm for this illegal business to thrive.
Despite efforts to combat human trafficking, the problem persists.
Talking to GPlus, an official from CID Assam said, “In 2023, we recorded 151 cases of trafficking, out of which 135 women were rescued,” the official stated. “As of June 2024, there have been 70 reported cases, with 56 women rescued so far.”
GPlus spoke to several individuals working on the ground in Assam.
A local social worker seeking anonymity shared their experiences dealing with trafficking cases. “We often encounter victims who have been deceived into coming to the city with promises of better job opportunities or marriage. When they arrive, they find themselves trapped in situations of exploitation,” they said. “The challenge is not just rescuing these women but also providing them with the support they need to rebuild their lives.”
Talking to GPlus, another NGO worker from a local organisation focused on women’s rights and trafficking issues provided insight into the broader impact of trafficking. “The problem is not just about rescuing individuals; it’s about addressing the root causes of trafficking. Poverty and lack of education are significant factors,” they explained. “We need comprehensive strategies that include prevention, support for victims, and stricter enforcement of laws. Our work involves going into isolated areas to educate young girls and raise awareness about their rights. It’s about building a stronger foundation to prevent trafficking in the first place.”
While efforts are being made to combat this problem, including rescue operations and support services, the trafficking network's complexity necessitates a more comprehensive and coordinated approach.
