SC Issued Guidelines to Child Trafficking

In a landmark judgment dated April 15, 2025, the Supreme Court of India issued a stern warning to parents, emphasizing the need for extreme vigilance against the growing menace of child trafficking. The court highlighted the grave threats children face from trafficking gangs who exploit them for sexual exploitation, forced labour, child marriage, and illegal adoptions. The judgment reflects the apex court’s deep concern over the increasing use of technology by trafficking networks and the inadequacies of institutional responses.

Key Highlights of the Judgment

Parents’ Vigilance Urged

• The Supreme Court cautioned parents to be extremely careful as even a moment’s negligence could lead to severe consequences.

Nature of Crimes

• Children are trafficked for sexual exploitation, forced labour, begging, petty crimes, child marriage, and illegal adoptions disguised as inter-country adoptions.

Use of Technology by Traffickers

• Well-networked child trafficking gangs use digital tools to share victim data, locations, and coordinate finances.

Pain of Untraceable Children

• The court noted that losing a child to trafficking causes lifelong trauma, unlike the grief from death which may have closure.

Hospitals Held Accountable

• Hospitals may face license suspension and legal action if newborns go missing from their premises.
• Emphasis on hospital responsibility in protecting newborns.

Loopholes in Juvenile Justice System

• Criminals exploit protections under the Juvenile Justice Act to recruit children into criminal acts with reduced legal consequences.

Illegal Adoption Rackets

• High adoption wait times have encouraged criminal groups to traffic children for illegal adoptions.

Bail Cancellation and Trial Orders

• Supreme Court cancelled bail for 13 accused granted by the Allahabad HC.
• Ordered completion of trial within six months.
• Directed police to trace absconding accused within two months.

Special Prosecutors & Victim Protection

• Ordered appointment of three Special Public Prosecutors.
• Directed witness protection for victim families.

Rebuke to State Government

• Criticized Uttar Pradesh for lack of seriousness in appealing against HC’s decision.

Directive to High Courts

• All High Courts ordered to ensure trial completion of pending child trafficking cases within six months.

Non-compliance Consequences

• Authorities showing negligence or disobeying the order may face contempt of court proceedings.