Mumbai: In a shocking case exposing the grim reality of child trafficking, a 12-year-old Bangladeshi girl rescued from an illegal trafficking operation in Naigaon, Vasai revealed that she had been exploited by more than 200 individuals over three months. The rescue was carried out on July 26 by the Anti-Human Trafficking Unit of Mira-Bhayandar Vasai-Virar (MBVV) Police, with assistance from Exodus Road India Foundation and Harmony Foundation. So far, ten suspects have been taken into custody.
Abraham Mathai, founder-chairman of Harmony Foundation, shared that the child was initially taken to Nadiad, Gujarat, where the abuse occurred. Her troubles began when she, fearing punishment from her parents after failing a school subject, left home with a woman she knew. This acquaintance allegedly brought her into India and coerced her into the illegal trade. Mathai urged authorities to identify and take legal action against every person involved.
Police Commissioner Niket Kaushik assured that the MBVV police are committed to dismantling the entire trafficking network and ensuring stronger protection for at-risk minors.
Mathai emphasized that this case reflects a wider systemic problem, where vulnerable children are failed by both guardians and society. He also cautioned that excessive parental strictness can unintentionally drive children toward dangerous situations.
Activist Madhu Shankar added that she has seen young girls in Vashi and Belapur being controlled by handlers and forced into similar exploitation. In some instances, the girls are reportedly given hormonal substances to induce early maturity.