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Lok Sabha passes anti-trafficking Bill
Why in the news ?
- The Lok Sabha in the ongoing monsoon session, passed the Trafficking of Persons (Prevention, Protection and Rehabilitation) Bill, 2018.
- The Bill provides for the prevention, rescue, and rehabilitation of trafficked persons.
Background
- Trafficking in human beings is the third largest organized crime violating basic human rights.
- There is no specific law so far to deal with this crime.
- Accordingly, the Trafficking of Persons (Prevention, Protection and Rehabilitation) Bill, 2018 has been prepared.
- The Bill addresses one of the most pervasive yet invisible crimes affecting the most vulnerable persons especially women and children.
- The new law will make India a leader among South Asian countries to combat trafficking.
- Trafficking is a global concern also affecting a number of South Asian nations.
- Amongst them, India is now a pioneer in formulating a comprehensive legislation.
- UNODC and SAARC nations are looking forward to India to take lead by enacting this law.
Key features of the Bill
- National Anti-Trafficking Bureau:
- The Bill provides for the establishment of a National Anti-Trafficking Bureau to investigate trafficking cases and implement provisions of the Bill.
- State Anti-Trafficking Officers:
- Under the Bill, the state government will appoint a State Nodal Officer. He will be responsible for:(i) follow up action under the Bill, as per the instructions of the State Anti-Trafficking Committee, and(ii) providing relief and rehabilitation services.
- The state government will also appoint a Police Nodal Officer at the state and district levels.
- Anti-Trafficking Units:
- The Bill also provides for the setting up of Anti-Trafficking Units (ATUs) at the district level.
- ATUs will deal with the prevention, rescue, and protection of victims and witnesses, and for the investigation and prosecution of trafficking offences.
- Anti-Trafficking Relief and Rehabilitation Committee:
- The Bill provides for the establishment of Anti-Trafficking Relief and Rehabilitation Committees (ATCs) at the national, state, and district levels.
- These Committees will be responsible for:(i) providing compensation to victims,(ii) repatriation of victims, and(iii) re-integration of victims in society, among others.
- Protection and rehabilitation:
- The Bill requires the central or state government to set up Protection Homes.
- These would provide shelter, food, counselling, and medical services to victims.
- Time-bound trial: The Bill provides for setting up designated courts in each district, which will seek to complete trial within a year.
- Penalties:
- SourceThe Hindu, PRS, PIB.