Justice Sujit Narayan Prasad voiced serious concerns about child trafficking and missing children cases in Jharkhand. The executive chairman of Jharkhand State Legal Services Authority and high court judge addressed this critical issue on Saturday.
Judge Calls for Increased Vigilance
Justice Prasad spoke to a large gathering of legal professionals and volunteers. Principal judges, district judges, DLSA secretaries, panel advocates, legal aid defense counsel, and para-legal volunteers from across the state attended the meeting.
The judge emphasized the crucial role of para-legal volunteers in combating this social menace. He stated that Jhalsa has strategically deployed these volunteers at multiple locations throughout the state.
Strategic Deployment of Volunteers
Para-legal volunteers now work at police stations, hospitals, and schools. They also operate at railway stations, panchayat offices, and remote areas. Their presence in these diverse locations creates a comprehensive monitoring network.
Justice Prasad directed these volunteers to maintain constant alertness regarding missing children cases. He instructed them to provide immediate inputs to authorities for prompt action. This rapid response system could significantly improve child rescue operations.
Preventing Re-trafficking of Victims
The judge highlighted another critical aspect of the problem. He stressed the importance of preventing rescued victims from falling into trafficking networks again. Proper rehabilitation measures must follow every successful rescue operation.
"Measures should be taken to ensure that the rescued victims are not trafficked again," Justice Prasad emphasized during his address. This statement underscores the need for comprehensive aftercare programs.
Creating Sustainable Livelihoods
Justice Prasad proposed concrete solutions to address the root causes of trafficking. He suggested that adequate employment opportunities within Jharkhand would reduce the need for youths to seek work outside the state. This economic approach could decrease vulnerability to traffickers.
The judge recommended linking rescued children to self-help groups. This connection would provide them with sustainable livelihood options. Such economic empowerment could protect vulnerable children from future exploitation.
The gathering represented a coordinated effort across Jharkhand's legal system. District legal service authorities, advocates, and volunteers all participated in this important discussion about child protection.
Justice Prasad's address reflects growing judicial concern about child safety in the state. His directives aim to strengthen the existing framework for preventing and addressing child trafficking cases. The emphasis on volunteer alertness and economic solutions marks a multi-pronged approach to this complex social issue.
