Lucknow: Calling human trafficking one of the most brutal forms of “modern slavery”, DGP Rajeev Krishna on Monday directed anti-human trafficking units (AHTUs) across state to strengthen intelligence networks, identify hotspots, conduct rescue operations and maintain strict surveillance at transit points.“There is a need for strong and coordinated action to effectively curb human trafficking. The crime is not only an organised offence but also a grave violation of human rights, rooted in poverty, inequality and displacement,” he said at a daylong state-level workshop on the issue at the UP Police headquarters. The workshop was organised by the Women and Child Security Organisation (WCSO). Highlighting UP’s vulnerability due to its size and proximity to the Nepal border, the DGP said the state govt, under chief minister Yogi Adityanath, has prioritised the safety of women, children and vulnerable groups. He noted that AHTUs, earlier present in 35 districts, are now functional in all 75 districts. Between 2016 and 2025, 1,010 human trafficking cases were registered in UP, with charge sheets filed in 832 cases. The DGP also stressed the need for coordinated operations with Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) along the Nepal border. During the event, five investigating officers and five AHTU station heads were felicitated for exemplary work. Former NDRF director general PM Nair spoke on the scope, causes and legal framework of human trafficking, while expert Rajesh Mani discussed rescue protocols and victim rehabilitation. Director general (railways) Prakash D cited GRP’s achievements, including the swift recovery of a kidnapped child from Tundla railway station within 24 hours. ADG (WCSO) Padmaja Chauhan called for strengthening AHTUs, increasing the use of digital tools and cracking down on illegal agents operating in India and abroad. She also flagged the rising use of digital platforms by trafficking networks. IG, SSB Lucknow Frontier, Ratna Sanjay shared details of joint operations conducted in six districts along the Nepal border with support from UP Police and NGOs.
