Agartala, July 28: National Commission for Women (NCW) Chairperson Vijaya Rahatkar on Tuesday said addressing child marriage, human trafficking, stalking and crimes against women would be the key focus of the Commission’s engagement with Tripura during her three-day maiden visit to the state, underlining the need for greater public awareness alongside stricter enforcement of laws.
Speaking to reporters after interacting with women representatives and activists at the Sonartari State Guest House, Rahatkar said Tripura’s geographical location as a border state makes it particularly vulnerable to human trafficking, requiring coordinated efforts by law enforcement agencies, security forces and local communities.
“Being a border state, human trafficking remains a serious concern. We regularly conduct programmes on anti-human trafficking and train not only the concerned agencies but also paramilitary forces and local communities. A similar workshop will be organised here to strengthen preventive measures,” she said.
Rahatkar stressed that awareness among parents is equally critical in preventing trafficking, noting that traffickers often lure girls and children with false promises of employment or marriage.
“Government agencies have to do their job, but families also have a responsibility. Parents must remain alert because many traffickers entice girls with promises of good jobs or marriage. Awareness at the family level is essential to prevent such crimes,” she said.
The NCW chief also announced that the Commission would hold a programme in Agartala on Thursday to mark World Day Against Trafficking in Persons, focusing on strengthening anti-human trafficking measures in the state.
Expressing concern over child marriage, Rahatkar said the Centre has set a target of eliminating the practice by 2030 and reducing its incidence by 10 per cent during 2026.
“We will review the steps taken by the state government and administrative machinery to prevent child marriages. At the same time, continuous public awareness is indispensable for achieving this national objective,” she said.
During her visit, the NCW Chairperson is scheduled to meet Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha to discuss government initiatives for women’s welfare and empowerment. She said the discussions would focus on policies aimed at improving the status and safety of women in the state.
Rahatkar praised the women of Tripura, describing them as confident and active participants in decision-making both within their families and society.
“I am happy to be in Tripura for the first time as NCW Chairperson. Women here are capable, take independent decisions and play a significant role in their families and communities,” she said.
As part of her itinerary, Rahatkar will visit Gomati district on Wednesday to inaugurate the NCW’s ‘She Shavaz’ programme, which aims to encourage young women to explore careers in the armed forces, paramilitary organisations and other defence services. The programme will provide guidance on recruitment procedures, physical and mental fitness requirements, and career opportunities in the defence sector.
She will also visit a workshop centre, hold meetings with the District Magistrate and Superintendent of Police, and review issues concerning women’s welfare and safety in the district.
On Thursday, besides the anti-human trafficking workshop, the NCW Chairperson will meet the Chief Secretary, visit Agartala Central Jail, and participate in a workshop on stalking with the Tripura State Commission for Women.
Highlighting the importance of early intervention, Rahatkar said stalking is often ignored in its initial stages but can escalate into serious crimes if left unchecked. She added that the workshop aims to sensitise stakeholders to recognise and address such incidents before they turn into grave offences.
Responding to a question on derogatory remarks targeting people from the Northeast, Rahatkar said such comments are unacceptable and must be dealt with firmly.
“We are all one—Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat. No one should make such remarks. Whenever such incidents occur, appropriate action must be taken so that such behaviour is effectively discouraged,” she said, recalling that the Commission had earlier taken suo motu cognisance of a similar incident in Delhi.
