Meeting for the Formation of the Special Task Force Committee on Human Trafficking – District Legal Services Authority (DLSA), Kalaburagi

On 28th February 2025, a meeting was convened by the District Legal Services Authority (DLSA) in Kalaburagi, aimed at addressing the alarming issue of human trafficking, particularly the trafficking of children. The meeting discussed various aspects concerning the protection of children from exploitation, the need for collaborative efforts between various authorities, and the formation of a Special Task Force Committee. Notably, Fr. Kuriakose, Director Don Bosco Society Kalaburagi, a member of the committee, presented critical points regarding children’s welfare and protection.

Fr. Kuriakose, in his address, raised several important concerns related to the issue of child trafficking, the role of concerned authorities, and the need for better procedural mechanisms to safeguard children. Below are the issues he highlighted:

Human Trafficking of Children and Investigations

1. Incident of Railway Track-Work Exploitation: Fr. Kuriakose brought to the Judge’s attention a recent case in which eight children, originally from Madhya Pradesh (MP), were rescued from forced labor on railway tracks in Kalaburagi. These children were victims of human trafficking and exploitation.
2. Need for Proper Investigation: He stressed the importance of conducting thorough investigations into cases of human trafficking involving children, ensuring that the perpetrators are brought to justice and the children are protected and rehabilitated.
3. Role of CWC, DCPO, and NGOs: Fr. Kuriakose emphasized the need for better coordination between the Child Welfare Committee (CWC), the District Child Protection Officer (DCPO), and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) working on child protection.
4. Social Investigation Report (SIR): A crucial point raised was the need for a proper Social Investigation Report (SIR) before any children are released by the CWC. He urged that no child should be sent out of protective custody without a thorough SIR, to ensure their safety and well-being.
5. Senior Judge’s and Secretary’s Involvement: Fr. Kuriakose appealed to the senior officials present at the meeting, including the Secretary and Senior Judge of the DLSA Kalaburagi, to take swift and decisive action regarding the issues raised. The meeting underscored the importance of urgent intervention from all concerned departments to combat human trafficking effectively.
6. Advocacy for Don Bosco with Top District Officers

The meeting also served as an advocacy platform for Don Bosco, who addressed top district officers on the pressing issues of child trafficking and children’s welfare. The collaboration between district authorities and NGOs like Don Bosco is crucial for creating a more child-friendly environment, where children’s rights are upheld and protected.

• Formation of Special Task Force Committee: The meeting concluded with a resolution to form a Special Task Force Committee that will be responsible for monitoring and tackling the issue of child trafficking in Kalaburagi. This committee will work closely with law enforcement, CWCs, DCPOs, and NGOs to ensure comprehensive action against human trafficking.

The meeting convened by DLSA Kalaburagi on 28th February 2025 was a significant step toward addressing the grave issue of human trafficking, particularly child trafficking. Fr. Kuriakose’s contributions highlighted critical issues that require immediate action, including improving investigations, ensuring proper cooperation between authorities, and establishing stronger safeguards for children. The formation of the Special Task Force Committee and the commitment of top district officers show promising steps toward making Kalaburagi a safer place for vulnerable children.