A vital one-day workshop focused on ‘Anti-Human Trafficking’ was recently organized in Bengaluru through a joint effort by the South Western Railway (SWR) and the National Commission for Women (NCW), New Delhi. The primary goal was to educate and raise awareness among crucial participants about effectively preventing, detecting, and responding to human trafficking cases, highlighting the indispensable role of the railway network in these efforts.
During the inauguration, V. Somanna, Union Minister of State for Railways and Jal Shakti, underscored the importance of replicating such awareness programs across other major urban centers. He particularly praised successful initiatives like ‘Operation Meri Saheli’, designed to enhance the safety of women traveling unaccompanied or with their children.
NCW Chairperson Vijaya K. Rahatkar spoke about the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the NCW and Indian Railways, which establishes four core pillars for combating human trafficking: Prevention, Protection, Prosecution, and Partnership. She also drew attention to ‘Operation Matrushakti,’ a commendable initiative that provides assistance to pregnant women experiencing labor during train travel.
The workshop brought together a diverse group of participants, including personnel from the Railway Protection Force (RPF), station masters, ticket examiners, Government Railway Police (GRP) officials, and representatives from various Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs).