Joint Effort: 300 Volunteers and Police Personnel Hold Silent Vigil to Combat Human Trafficking

Hyderabad(July 30) : In a powerful collaboration to combat human trafficking, the Hyderabad City Police teamed up with the renowned anti-trafficking organization, Prajwala, to conduct a joint ‘awakening vigil’ on Tank Bund Road. The event, held on the occasion of the “World Day Against Trafficking in Persons,” aimed to raise awareness about the alarming issue of human trafficking and emphasized the need for united efforts to combat this organized crime. The vigil brought together 300 passionate volunteers from Prajwala and dedicated police personnel, led by Joint Commissioner of Police Dr. Gajarao Bhupal, along with the esteemed Padma Awardee, Sunitha Krishnan, and senior officers from the Hyderabad City Police.

The silent vigil carried a resounding message of collective action against trafficking, highlighting the significance of working together to counter this heinous crime. “World Day Against Trafficking in Persons,” declared by the United Nations, serves as an annual reminder to address the distressing developments and trends of human trafficking on a global scale. Governments, law enforcement agencies, public services, and civil society are urged to assess and strengthen their efforts in prevention, victim identification and support, and putting an end to impunity.

The Hyderabad City Police has been at the forefront of pioneering innovative models for victim protection, with gender-based violence being a top priority. Their unique multi-stakeholder initiative, ‘Bharosa,’ provides comprehensive support to victims, ensuring swift justice. Additionally, their Women’s Safety Wing launched ‘She-teams,’ which effectively deter and prevent crimes, breaking the cycle of impunity among offenders.

Prajwala, founded by Padma Shri Sunitha Krishnan, is a well-known anti-trafficking organization that has made remarkable strides in the fight against sex trafficking. Guided by five pillars of prevention, rescue, rehabilitation, reintegration, and advocacy, Prajwala has successfully assisted the police in rescuing over 28,200 victims from sex trafficking. Their efforts have been recognized by the Government of India, honoring them with the prestigious ‘National Award for Child Welfare.‘ Their work continues to make a significant impact, providing holistic rehabilitation to victims through their therapeutic communities.

This joint awakening vigil stands as a testament to the commitment of both the Hyderabad City Police and Prajwala in their unwavering fight against human trafficking, reaffirming the importance of reaching every victim and leaving no one behind.