Telangana Government calls for convergence of departments to end human trafficking and bonded labour

The Women Safety Wing (WSW), Telangana Police, in collaboration with the International Justice Mission (IJM), conducted a State-Level Convergence Workshop on Combating Human Trafficking Pertaining to Bonded Labour at Marigold Hotel, Begumpet, Hyderabad.

The workshop brought together over 200 participants, including senior government officials, police officers, judiciary representatives, legal professionals, media personnel and civil society organisations, providing a vital platform to deliberate on emerging trends and strengthen coordinated responses to combat human trafficking and bonded labour.

The inaugural session was graced by Sri B. Shivadhar Reddy, IPS, Director General of Police, Telangana, along with Ms. Charu Sinha, IPS, Additional Director General of Police, Women Safety Wing, and Smt. D. Anasuya Seethakka, Hon’ble Minister for Women and Child Welfare.

The workshop featured focused discussions on evolving trends in human trafficking, bonded labour and sex trafficking, recognising bonded labour as a hidden and under-reported form of organised crime. Sessions highlighted the need for stronger deterrence mechanisms, improved enforcement of labour laws, strengthened prosecution systems and enhanced role of Anti-Human Trafficking Units (AHTUs).

Addressing the participants Sri B. Shivadhar Reddy, IPS, Director General of Police, Telangana emphasized that bonded labour is not merely a labour issue but a coercive organised crime, where victims are lured through false promises, trapped in exploitative conditions and often unable to escape without external intervention.

“The State Police should focus on proactive identification of victims, strong investigations, and ensure convictions using modern technology,” said the DGP