Special Programme Held at Udaipur City Railway Station on World Day Against Trafficking in Persons
Udaipur, 30 July — Child trafficking can be effectively curbed with increased public awareness, said Dr. Shailendra Pandya, child rights expert and Director of Gayatri Seva Sansthan, Udaipur. Speaking at a special awareness programme held at Udaipur City Railway Station on the occasion of World Day Against Trafficking in Persons (30 July), Dr. Pandya urged citizens to remain alert and report any suspicious individuals, unaccompanied children, or unusual activity to the railway police or child helpline.
He emphasised that just as passengers safeguard their own belongings while travelling, they must also be watchful of their surroundings. Timely information and awareness are essential to dismantle trafficking rackets and build a safer society. If any child appears to be in a suspicious situation, travellers are urged to immediately contact Child Helpline 1098 or Railway Helpline 139.
Government and Society Must Work Together: Dhruv Kumar Kaviya
Chief Guest Dhruv Kumar Kaviya, Member of the Rajasthan State Commission for Protection of Child Rights, said that both government and society are jointly working to protect children’s rights. He stated that the vigilance of every citizen can play a significant role in this mission. He also shared information about government schemes for the rehabilitation, education, and counselling of affected children.
Railway and Security Officials Share Views
Station Superintendent Hansraj Meena, Railway Protection Force Udaipur in-charge Ravindra Charan, and Vikas Singh also shared their views during the programme. They underlined the importance of cooperation between agencies and citizens in tackling trafficking cases.
150+ Children Rescued by Gayatri Seva Sansthan
Gayatri Seva Sansthan highlighted that over the past year, the organisation has rescued more than 150 children from child labour, trafficking, and child marriage. It was noted that child trafficking is not limited to labour or profit motives but also includes sexual exploitation and forced marriages, especially involving girls. This is a serious issue that is often overlooked and needs more attention in prevention strategies.
Need for Coordination Among All Agencies
Officials present at the event discussed the challenges faced by law enforcement in handling child trafficking cases. They jointly agreed on the urgent need to increase awareness of existing laws, sensitise vulnerable communities about trafficking networks and their methods, and strengthen coordination among all agencies. This is crucial to ensure timely justice and rehabilitation for rescued children.
Posters Released, Travellers Educated Through Street Play
Awareness posters were released during the programme, and a street play team engaged travellers with messages against trafficking. RPF officer Surendra Singh urged passengers to immediately report any suspicious activity to the authorities, noting that public alertness often plays a vital role in child safety.
Representatives from Gayatri Seva Sansthan, including Payal Kaneria, Vivek Paliwal, Mukesh Kulmi, Radha, and Surajmal, were present. The main objective of the event was to raise awareness among travellers and citizens, and to promote collective responsibility in preventing child trafficking.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Nitin Paliwal, District Project Officer, Gayatri Seva Sansthan.
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