Bihar Police Conducts Major Raid, Rescues 15 Trafficked Minor Girls from Orchestra Groups
In a significant crackdown on human trafficking, the district police and Anti-Human Trafficking Unit (AHTU) in Saran district, Bihar, successfully rescued a total of 15 minor girls from six orchestra groups operating within a 10-kilometer radius. The operation, which unfolded in the early hours of Thursday, was disclosed by officials on Friday after completing necessary formalities, highlighting a concerted effort to combat exploitation in the region.
Intensive Five-Hour Operation Targets Alleged Orchestra Nexus
The five-hour operation was a joint effort involving officials from the Bihar Police, the AHTU, and volunteers from two non-governmental organizations: the Association for Voluntary Action and the Narayani Seva Sansthan. Searches were conducted at six locations under the directives of Amit Kumar Jain, ADG of the weaker section at CID, Bihar Police, and on the orders of the SSP of Saran. The raid commenced shortly after 1 AM on Thursday and continued until morning, demonstrating a swift and coordinated response to the alleged criminal activities.
Most of the rescued girls bore visible injury marks on their bodies, indicating severe physical abuse. According to police reports, these minors were trafficked from multiple states including Punjab, Odisha, Assam, West Bengal, and Uttar Pradesh, underscoring the interstate nature of the trafficking network. In the course of the operation, five out of the six orchestra owners were arrested, and one vehicle was seized as evidence.
Dramatic Chase and Rescue Efforts
During the raids, 12 girls were initially rescued from various orchestra premises. However, the situation escalated when the owner of Khushi Orchestra attempted to flee with three girls in a car. After an intense eight-kilometer chase, police apprehended the accused and safely rescued the girls, preventing further harm. This incident highlights the risks involved in such operations and the determination of law enforcement to protect vulnerable individuals.
Legal Actions and Rehabilitation Measures
An FIR has been registered at the Chhapra Mahila police station under multiple legal provisions, including Sections 143(1) and 145 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, the POCSO Act of 2012, Section 79 of the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act of 2015, and Section 16 of the Bonded Labour System (Abolition) Act. The case involves seven accused persons, reflecting the seriousness of the charges.
All 15 rescued girls were promptly produced before the Child Welfare Committee and subsequently transferred to a Child Care Institution. Here, they will receive rehabilitation and counselling services to aid their recovery from the trauma endured. The FIR details that the girls were forced to perform at night to obscene songs, denied full payment, and subjected to physical violence and verbal abuse, painting a grim picture of their exploitation.
List of Raided Orchestra Groups
- Kajal Orchestra
- Sur Sangam Orchestra
- Kopa Chatti Orchestra
- Khushi Orchestra
- Shyam Orchestra
- Diya Orchestra
This operation marks a critical step in addressing human trafficking and child exploitation in Bihar, with authorities emphasizing ongoing efforts to ensure justice and support for the victims.
