HT Correspondent
KOKRAJHAR, July 29: Observing the World Day Against Trafficking in Persons, the Kokrajhar district administration, in collaboration with the District Social Welfare Office, organised a district-level awareness campaign on Tuesday to address the issues of human trafficking and witch hunting.
The programme, held at the Conference Hall of BTC Secretariat, Bodofa Nwgwr, was conducted under the initiative of SANKALP, DHEW, Mission Shakti, and the Women and Child Development Department, Assam.
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It witnessed active participation from various stakeholders across the district.
Extensive discussions were held to sensitise participants about the social and legal implications of human trafficking and witch hunting, and to strengthen coordinated efforts for their eradication.
Pami Brahma, Secretary, Women and Child Development Department, Bodoland Territorial Council, addressed the gathering and emphasised the long-lasting damage caused by witch hunting on individuals and communities.
She highlighted the need for inter-departmental coordination, legal mechanisms, and awareness campaigns to combat such practices.
“Witch hunting affects lives deeply; it is critical that we address it through legal mechanisms, preventive steps, and robust awareness campaigns,” she said.
She also pointed out the persistence of superstition even among the educated and stressed the need to challenge such beliefs.
Ronal Ekka, Assistant LADC, District Legal Services Authority (DLSA), spoke on the legal framework surrounding human trafficking and witch hunting and informed attendees about the rights of victims and legal remedies available.
A short film by the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) on human trafficking was also screened during the event.
The programme was attended by District Social Welfare Officer (DSWO) Jintu Moni Phukan, District Child Protection Officer (DCPO), DIPRO, Child Development Project Officers (CDPOs) from Dotma, Kachugaon, Kokrajhar, and Mahamaya, along with representatives from NGOs NEDAN and NERSWN, officials from ASRLM, supervisors, One Stop Centre staff, Jeevika Sakhi ASRLM, and Anganwadi workers.
