In Pinki v. State of Uttar Pradesh, the SC directed all High Courts to ensure that child trafficking trials are completed within 6 months and to report progress.

• The Court also highlighted the low conviction rate in such cases, caused by: Easy bail for traffickers, Hostile witnesses, Delays in trial, etc. 

Other Key Direction by SC to Address the Issue

• Reporting: 
  • Treat missing children’s cases as abduction or trafficking unless proven otherwise. 
  • Ensure mandatory reporting of all human trafficking cases by police or Anti-Human Trafficking Units (AHTUs).
• Strengthen Child Protection Systems
  • Create a state-level Anti-Human Trafficking Bureau in each state capital.
  • Set up and improve Child Welfare Committees in every district. 
  • Ensure regular inspections of hazardous industries and take strict action against violators.
  • Establish child-friendly courts to support child victims, as seen in Telangana and West Bengal.
• Other measures
  • Improve Victim Support
  • Promote community policing
  • Improve coordination with NGOs for rescue, rehabilitation, and awareness efforts.