Human Trafficking Crisis in Tinsukia’s Tea Gardens: A Deepening Emergency

The alarming prevalence of human trafficking in Tinsukia district, particularly in the Doomdooma, Rupai, and Talap areas, casts a dark cloud over impoverished families. This ongoing crisis raises significant concerns, with numerous incidents highlighting the vulnerability of tea garden workers to exploitation by traffickers.

Recent investigations reveal a troubling network where individuals are bought and sold through a clandestine market operated by commissioned brokers. This disturbing practice strips victims of their dignity and devastates the lives of their families, many of whom are already struggling to survive.

Alarming Discoveries

Reports indicate that these brokers engage in heinous acts, including forgery to facilitate the trafficking of minors. They falsify the ages of teenagers to obtain Aadhaar cards, enabling illegal transactions to proceed under the guise of legitimacy. Consequently, nearly fifty children and adolescents are now trapped in Arunachal Pradesh, far from their homes, further complicating their plight.

The need for immediate intervention has become urgent. The NGO Oju Welfare Committee, based in Arunachal Pradesh, is advocating for the safe return of these vulnerable individuals. They have reached out to local leaders, including Bobby Bora, president of the Doomdooma Mahila Samaj, emphasizing the critical need to repatriate these affected children, adolescent girls, and elderly individuals back to Assam.

A Persistent Market for Trafficking

The human trafficking market in Tinsukia has reportedly been operating for an extended period, creating an environment of fear and exploitation. This illicit market thrives on the desperation of workers, who are often targeted by brokers promising employment opportunities in Arunachal Pradesh. However, the reality typically involves exploitation and abuse.

Allegations have surfaced that brokers deceive workers and take advantage of their naivety. They lure unsuspecting individuals into believing they will earn a decent living, offering advance payments ranging from ₹10,000 to ₹15,000. Once in Arunachal Pradesh, many of these workers find themselves trapped in exploitative situations with little hope of escape.

Call to Action

The distressing situation in Tinsukia underscores the urgent need for collective action to combat human trafficking. Local authorities, NGOs, and community leaders must collaborate to raise awareness, strengthen legal frameworks, and ensure the protection of vulnerable individuals. There is a pressing necessity to dismantle the broker networks that facilitate these human rights violations and to provide support to victims seeking to reclaim their lives.

Also Read: Assam: Nagaon Woman Sold in Oman, Human Trafficker Apprehended