Rita (name changed) became a victim of human trafficking at the age 8. She spent over 20 harsh years of her youth in the hands of her passing employers, some of whom have been affluent service holders in the social work sector including that of the Church and the UN bodies.

The narrative was shared by Legal Officer – Gaurav Tomar while participating in the International Prayer Day against Human Trafficking organized by Caritas in New Delhi. Several other Caritas member organizations across the globe are also observing this day.

Tomar who is working with a Caritas network organization, Chetnalaya based in Delhi said his team is still fighting for the rights of Rita.

Arun Kadambavanam from International Justice Mission (IJM) shared to the gathering Anil Singh’s story, who was taken as bonded laborer in the remote sugar cane field of Maharashtra. He was rescued later by IJM and has since then become a story of hope and inspiration as he and his wife and the newly born baby begin to move on in life with the support mechanism created by IJM.

Caritas India Executive Director Father Frederick D’Souza expressed concern on the growing concern of human trafficking especially children. He said that the children are powerless as young and innocent as they are and the powerful- the adults are take undue advantage of this fact.

Deputy Director Father Paul Moonjely lamented on the sorry state of the trafficked children in the society and thanked all the network organizations for taking measures to improve the situation.