What Happened to the 19 Rescued Children in Rajkot?
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Synopsis
In a shocking incident in Rajkot, Gujarat, authorities have rescued 19 children from illegal confinement, where they were forced into labor. This alarming case raises concerns about child trafficking in the region. Read on to discover the details surrounding their rescue and the ongoing investigation.
Key Takeaways
- 19 children rescued from child labor in Rajkot.
- Children showed signs of physical abuse.
- Authorities suspect a network of child trafficking in the region.
- Previous incidents raise alarms about the ongoing issue.
- Legal actions may follow for violating child protection laws.
Rajkot, June 6 (NationPress) A total of 19 children were rescued from illegal confinement in Gujarat's Rajkot, where they were reportedly held against their will and made to labor in the production of imitation jewelry.
The Rajkot City Police, in collaboration with the Special Operations Group (SOG) and the Anti-Human Trafficking Unit, found the children in dire circumstances inside a home located near Bedichowk.
Authorities noted that the children appeared to be in distress and have already been taken for medical evaluations.
Initial assessments have indicated injury marks on their backs and hands, raising concerns of physical abuse.
Law enforcement is examining whether the children were subjected to coercion and violence.
According to preliminary findings, the children had been brought to Rajkot over the last two years by a contractor who exploited them for manual work, breaching child protection laws.
The property from which they were freed is reportedly owned by an individual named Babu Bala.
Investigators are looking into whether a rental agreement existed for the property. If not, legal actions may follow for violating tenancy regulations and facilitating trafficking.
Authorities suspect that this incident is part of a larger network of child trafficking and bonded labor that is becoming increasingly prevalent in Gujarat, with Rajkot identified as a significant hotspot. This incident is not isolated.
Earlier in April, a similar operation in Jetpur led to the rescue of 31 child laborers from two saree factories, with children trafficked from states such as Madhya Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand, and Gujarat.
This earlier operation was also prompted by a tip-off from an NGO regarding hazardous working conditions for the children.
In July 2024, police in Ahemdabad rescued 29 children who were coerced into begging by trafficking networks linked to Rajasthan.
This operation targeted 18 hotspots notorious for child exploitation.
Point of View
I believe it is crucial to highlight the growing concern of child trafficking in our nation. This incident in Rajkot underscores the need for stricter enforcement of child protection laws and increased vigilance from authorities. We must prioritize the safety and well-being of our children and ensure that justice is served.
NationPress
07/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What were the conditions of the rescued children?
The rescued children were found in distressing conditions, showing signs of physical abuse, including injury marks on their hands and backs.
Who is being investigated in this case?
Authorities are investigating the property owner, identified as Babu Bala, and a contractor who allegedly brought the children to Rajkot for forced labor.
Is this the first incident of child trafficking in Rajkot?
No, this is not the first case. Rajkot has seen similar incidents, including a previous raid in Jetpur that rescued 31 child laborers.
