ITANAGAR, Sep 4: Expressing its outrage and sorrow over the recent incident involving the busting of an interstate sex racket in Ziro and rescue of four young girls, including two minors, from the clutches of flesh traders, the Apatani Women Association of Ziro (AWAZ) has urged the authorities concerned to conduct a thorough investigation into this case, ensuring that every individual involved, from traffickers to customers, is brought to justice.
The Ziro Police has on August 29 busted the inter-state sex racket by arresting eight individuals, including sex traffickers, pimps and customers, and rescued four victims with two of them being minors, aged 15 and 16.
Vehemently condemning this “appalling crime”, the women’s body in a statement said, “The exploitation and trafficking of young girls, particularly minors, is an unforgivable act that not only violates the basic human rights of the victims but also stains the moral fabric of our society.” It also added, “The fact that this criminal activity took place in our peaceful valley is deeply disturbing.”
AWAZ commended the swift and decisive action taken by the police in dismantling this immoral network and arresting the individuals responsible.
Besides demanding a thorough probe to bring every individual involved to justice, it also called for the implementation of stricter measures to prevent such atrocities from recurring in the future.
Furthermore, the AWAZ appealed to the community to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity that may threaten the safety and dignity of women and children, to the police. “The protection of our vulnerable members is a responsibility we all share,” it said.
It also demanded that the rescued minors should be placed under the safe custody of child welfare homes, helping them to receive necessary psychological and emotional support to heal from their traumatic experiences. “We also urge that they be reunited with their families as soon as possible, where they can receive the love and care they desperately need.”
While noting that AWAZ remains steadfast in its commitment to advocating for the rights and safety of women and children, the statement said, “Let us not forget that a society that fails to protect its women and children is doomed. We must all work together to ensure that such criminal networks are eradicated and that our valley remains a place of peace, safety, and respect for all.”