Supreme Court Upholds Conviction in Child Trafficking Case
The Supreme Court of India confirmed the conviction of a man and his wife involved in the trafficking and sexual exploitation of a minor girl, underscoring the pervasive issue of child trafficking and commercial sexual exploitation within the country.
Key Observations and Background
- The court acknowledged the widespread and deeply rooted nature of organized child exploitation in India, despite existing legislative safeguards.
- This case highlights offenses that erode fundamental rights such as dignity and bodily integrity, contradicting the State's constitutional duty to protect children.
Case Details
- An NGO tipped off authorities about minor girls being forced into sex work at a specific location.
- The police raid led to the rescue of a minor and the recovery of incriminating evidence, including a cell phone and cash from the accused's wife.
Legal Proceedings
- The trial court convicted the couple under various sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and the Immoral Traffic (Prevention) Act (ITPA), 1956.
- The couple's appeal to the high court was dismissed, and the Supreme Court reviewed the evidence with heightened sensitivity to the victim's testimony.
Supreme Court's Rationale
- The court found the minor's testimony credible, confirming the exploitation by the accused.
- It emphasized the correct procedural adherence to Section 15(2) of the ITPA regarding search operations.
- Consequently, the conviction was upheld, reinforcing the importance of justice for victims of sexual trafficking.
