In a pivotal directive, the Supreme Court has called on the Central government to address a significant gap in legislation concerning the rehabilitation of sex trafficking victims. The Court emphasized the urgent need for a comprehensive rehabilitation framework, highlighting the severe physical and mental traumas these victims endure.
A bench comprising Justice J B Pardiwala and Justice Pankaj Mithal articulated concerns over the dehumanization and violation of fundamental rights experienced by victims, stating, “Human and sex trafficking strip victims of their right to life, freedom, and personal security. The vulnerable, particularly women and children, bear the brunt of these heinous crimes.”
During the proceedings, the Justices outlined the multifaceted impact on victims, including life-threatening injuries, the risk of infections and sexually transmitted diseases, and severe mental health issues such as anxiety, PTSD, depression, and substance abuse.
The Court also noted the societal challenges victims face, including alienation and ostracism. “Victims are often shunned, leading to further isolation and withdrawal from societal interactions, which hinders their educational and personal development,” the bench observed.
