Combating Human Trafficking in the Digital Era

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), India, in collaboration with the Hidayatullah National Law University (HNLU), Raipur, organized a National Conference on "Combating Human Trafficking in the Digital Era" on February 7, 2025. The event brought together experts, law enforcement officials, academicians, and activists to deliberate on the growing threats posed by digital technologies in facilitating human trafficking.

Justice Shri V. Ramasubramanian, Chairperson of NHRC India, inaugurated the event and emphasized the urgent need to build public awareness about the dangers of digital spaces, strengthen legal and regulatory frameworks, and implement technological solutions to curb cyber-enabled trafficking. He highlighted emerging methods such as “Hook Fishing” (active recruitment) and “Net Fishing” (passive recruitment), which traffickers use to lure victims online.

The conference was structured into two thematic sessions. The first session focused on the role of the internet in facilitating human trafficking and migrant smuggling, addressing legal and regulatory gaps, digital anonymity, and gendered aspects of trafficking crimes. Discussions underscored the role of Artificial Intelligence, digital forensics, and Anti-Human Trafficking Units (AHTUs) in tracking and preventing online trafficking activities.

The second session emphasized preventive strategies, including the role of technology, law enforcement agencies, victim support mechanisms, and community engagement. Speakers highlighted the need for improved coordination between legal frameworks, particularly linking the Immoral Traffic (Prevention) Act (ITPA) with the Information Technology (IT) Act to effectively combat cyber trafficking.

Key recommendations from the conference included amending the ITPA to explicitly address cyber trafficking, equipping AHTUs with digital training, enhancing public awareness about self-reporting portals and fostering community participation in anti-trafficking efforts. The event reinforced the need for a multi-stakeholder approach, integrating legal reforms, technological advancements, and societal engagement to combat human trafficking in the digital age.

(PIB/DN)