NHRC Takes Cognizance of Alleged Trafficking and Sexual Exploitation of 17-Year-Old Tribal Girl

New Delhi-Andhra Pradesh: The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), India, has taken suo otu cognizance of a media report alleging that a 17-year-old tribal girl from Odisha’s Dhenkanal district was trafficked to Uttar Pradesh, sold multiple times, and subjected to repeated sexual assault for nearly two years. Describing the allegations as a serious human rights concern, the Commission has issued notices to the police chiefs of Odisha and Uttar Pradesh, as well as the District Magistrate of Dhenkanal, seeking detailed reports on the case within two weeks.

NHRC seeks reports from Odisha and Uttar Pradesh authorities

Taking serious note of the reported incident, the NHRC observed that if the allegations are found to be true, they would constitute grave violations of human rights and human dignity.

Accordingly, notices have been issued to the Director General of Police (DGP), Odisha, the Director General of Police (DGP), Uttar Pradesh, and the District Magistrate of Dhenkanal district. The Commission has sought comprehensive reports detailing the progress of the investigation, as well as the measures taken to provide relief, protection, and rehabilitation to the victim.

The authorities have been directed to submit their reports within two weeks.

Girl allegedly trafficked on promise of employment

According to media reports published on May 29, 2026, the victim was among four girls allegedly trafficked from the Kankadahada area of Dhenkanal district to Uttar Pradesh under the pretext of providing employment opportunities.

The report alleges that after reaching Uttar Pradesh, the girl was subjected to exploitation and abuse instead of being provided with legitimate work. The case has raised concerns about the continued vulnerability of tribal and economically disadvantaged communities to human trafficking networks operating across state boundaries.

Allegations of confinement and repeated sexual assault

The media report further alleges that the minor girl was confined in a house for nearly three months, during which she was repeatedly subjected to sexual assault.

According to the allegations, the abuse continued over an extended period, causing severe physical and psychological trauma. The case highlights the risks faced by trafficking victims who are often isolated, deprived of support systems, and subjected to sustained exploitation.

Forced abortion and alleged sale to another person

One of the most disturbing allegations in the case is that after the victim reportedly became pregnant, she was allegedly forced to undergo an abortion without her consent.

The report further claims that she was subsequently sold to another individual for ₹50,000 and was again subjected to repeated sexual exploitation by multiple persons over a period of nearly two years.

The allegations, if substantiated, could attract serious criminal charges under laws relating to human trafficking, sexual offences, child protection, and forced abortion.

Victim escapes and seeks help

According to the report, the victim eventually managed to escape with the assistance of a local advocate in Jhansi and approached the local police for help.

While her statement was reportedly recorded by the Jhansi police, it has been alleged that no substantial action followed, apart from providing her with a train ticket to return to Odisha.

These allegations have prompted concerns regarding the adequacy of the response provided by local authorities after the victim sought assistance.

Odisha police begin investigation

After returning to Odisha, the victim’s statement was reportedly recorded by the Odisha Police, and an investigation into the allegations is currently underway.

Officials are expected to examine the circumstances surrounding the trafficking, identify those responsible, trace possible trafficking networks, and determine whether lapses occurred in the handling of the case by authorities in either state.

Focus on victim rehabilitation and accountability

The NHRC has emphasized the need not only for a thorough investigation but also for ensuring appropriate support and rehabilitation for the survivor.

Human rights advocates have repeatedly stressed that trafficking survivors require long-term assistance, including medical care, psychological counselling, legal aid, education, and social rehabilitation.

The Commission’s intervention is expected to bring greater scrutiny to the investigation while reinforcing the need for stronger protections against human trafficking and exploitation of vulnerable children and women.