UPSC Articles
Trafficking in Persons Report
Part of: GS Prelims and GS-II – Issues related to children and women
About the Report
- It is released by the US State Department
- It is world’s most comprehensive resource of governmental anti-trafficking efforts.
- It is also U.S. Government’s principal diplomatic tool to engage foreign governments on human trafficking.
What are the key findings of the Report?
- According 2021 report, the Covid-19 pandemic has resulted in an increase in vulnerability to human trafficking and interrupted existing anti-traffic efforts.
- Human trafficking involves the illegal transport of individuals by force or deception for the purpose of labour, sexual exploitation, or activities in which others benefit financially.
- India has not met the minimum standards to eliminate trafficking. The efforts made by the government are inadequate.
- Chinese government is engaged in widespread forced labour
What are the relevant Laws in India?
- Article 23 prohibits human trafficking and begar (forced labour without payment).
- Article 24 forbids employment of children below the age of 14 years in dangerous jobs like factories and mines.
- Indian Penal Code (IPC) Section:
- Section 370 and 370A of IPC provide for comprehensive measures to counter the menace of human trafficking
- Sections 372 and 373 dealing with selling and buying of girls for the purpose of prostitution.
