838 people intercepted along Indo-Nepal border in 3 months

NEW DELHI: Reflecting the rising cases of human trafficking post-earthquake in Nepal, 838 people, mostly women, have been intercepted along the Indo-Nepal border from April 25 to July 19, according to figures compiled by NGOs.

According to Murari Kharel, Director of Nepal Human Rights Commission (NHRC) at Nepalgung-- a border town in the neighbouring country, the figures were submitted to them by different NGOs working in the field.

Kharel said those intercepted are mostly women, who are later forced into fresh trade, and children.

The United Nations Population Fund claims that more than 28,000 women may be at risk of gender-based violence in the aftermath of the earthquake.

Speaking at conference on 'Indo-Nepal Human Trafficking Post Nepal Earthquake Perspective: Concerns and Challenges', Kharel expressed satisfaction with the current legislations in both the countries dealing with the issue, but empahsised on plugging the loopholes while investigating the cases.

"There is a legal framework in both the countries as both have ratified most international treaties related to human trafficking. There are also domestic legislations. But it will be better if it is strengthened further.

"The worrisome matter is loopholes that are there during the prosecution which helps culprits to go scot-free," he said.

He also emphasised on rehabilitation and re-integration of the victims once they are rescued.

"Rescuing the victim and again releasing her does not help. She needs to be re-integrated with the society after she goes back to her village. The victim needs to be counselled. Or else she will be subject to double victimisation," Kharel added.