Synopsis
Assam's Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced strong actions against social evils like witch hunting and human trafficking. The government has implemented proactive measures, including the establishment of Anti-Human Trafficking Units and new legislation, to combat these issues and support victims.Key Takeaways
- Decisive actions against witch hunting and human trafficking.
- Anti-Human Trafficking Units established in 35 districts.
- Over 700 traffickers arrested and 900 victims rescued.
- Implementation of Assam Witch Hunting Act, 2018.
- May 13 declared Day Against Superstitious Beliefs.
Guwahati, April 12 (NationPress) The Assam government has initiated significant and vigorous measures against social evils such as witch hunting and human trafficking, declared Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Saturday.
In a post on X, Sarma stated, “We are dedicated to eliminating social evils at their roots. In Assam, we are taking stringent actions against practices like witch hunting and human trafficking.
“We have implemented a model of Jan Bhagidari to tackle these issues, ensuring collaboration between the public and the government to create a safer environment for everyone,” he added.
Central to this model are the Anti-Human Trafficking Units (AHTUs), which have been strategically placed in 35 districts throughout the state.
These specialized teams, armed with training, technology, and determination, have conducted rigorous operations against human exploitation.
“Their endeavors have yielded results — over 700 traffickers have been apprehended, and more than 900 victims have been liberated from exploitation, many of whom are women and children,” the CM noted in his post.
“This battle extends beyond crime; it is also against belief — harmful, deep-rooted superstitions that have taken too many innocent lives over the years.
“One of the most horrific outcomes of such beliefs has been witch hunting, a practice that has left lasting wounds on the rural populace of Assam,” he remarked.
To combat this, the government enacted the Assam Witch Hunting (Prohibition, Prevention and Protection) Act, 2018, a pioneering law aimed at criminalizing every aspect of this inhumane practice.
Moreover, May 13 has been designated as the official Day Against Superstitious Beliefs — serving as a symbolic reminder and an appeal for societal awakening.
According to Sarma, Assam’s strategy is not only reactive but also proactive.
Officials have introduced improved policies focusing on awareness, law enforcement, and community engagement.
Multi-tiered committees have been established, connecting grassroots panchayats with state-level organizations, creating a strong framework for monitoring and response.
Additionally, a comprehensive prevention strategy has been applied, addressing not just the symptoms but also the root causes of these issues.
Alongside law enforcement, victim assistance programs offer counseling, rehabilitation, and reintegration services, providing survivors with a fresh start and dignity.
