Mysuru: Strict enforcement of laws against human trafficking and bonded labour is essential to uphold the constitutional right to a dignified life, principal district and sessions judge and DLSA president Usharani said.She was speaking at an event organised by Udaya Hejje Freed Bonded Labourers Federation to mark World Day Against Trafficking in Persons, here Thursday.Judge Usharani said human trafficking was a serious violation of personal liberty, dignity and physical well-being. Referring to Article 21 of the Constitution, she said rehabilitation of trafficking and bonded-labour victims was an integral part of their right to live with dignity. She stressed that providing physical, mental and economic rehabilitation to rescued victims was a constitutional responsibility of the State.Highlighting the 2024 theme, ‘Trapped behind the scam’, she called for greater public awareness about cybercrime networks and fraudulent schemes that could push vulnerable people into trafficking.Citing a recent joint raid at brick kilns in Devanahalli, she said 18 adults and seven children had been rescued.More than 60% of trafficking victims are women and minors, who are often exploited due to poverty, unemployment and false promises, she noted.
