IT News
Imphal, May 4:
The Directorate of Social Welfare, Government of Manipur, has undertaken a swift and decisive rescue operation after receiving distressing information regarding a minor girl reportedly held captive in Karnataka. The ordeal began when the department received a call from an executive member of the Manipur Students Association Delhi (MSAD) on April 30, 2024, alerting them to the plight of a 16-17-year-old girl from Salungpham, Thoubal District.
According to the report, the victim, identified as Daisy (name changed), was lured to Hyderabad in December 2023 under the pretext of employment by one Chaoba (name changed), a martial arts player like herself. However, subsequent investigations revealed that Daisy and Chaoba had relocated to Belgaum, Karnataka, where they were reportedly working in a restaurant. A Zero FIR has been filed against Chaoba, accusing him of various offenses, including enticing and detaining Daisy with criminal intent, though further inquiry uncovered a complex situation involving mutual consent and the absence of forceful detention.
A team led by K. Saroja Devi, Deputy Director (CP), Social Welfare Department, Government of Manipur, successfully located Daisy in Belgaum with the assistance of Karnataka Police and other local authorities. Following an interaction with Daisy and Chaoba, it was revealed that they lived and worked together by mutual agreement, though occasional disputes occurred. The rescue team subsequently repatriated Daisy to Imphal, where she was reunited with her mother. In light of this incident, the department has urged the public to exercise caution when sending children outside the state and emphasized the importance of combating human trafficking through coordinated efforts among various stakeholders.