In a landmark initiative, Nagpur City Police has intensified its efforts to crack down on human trafficking and sexual exploitation through ‘Operation Shakti’, a citywide campaign launched under the guidance of Commissioner of Police Dr. Ravindra Kumar Singal.
The operation stems from the formation of the District Action Group (DAG) in October 2024 — India’s first multi-agency anti-trafficking coordination unit at the district level. Comprising representatives from the police, DLSA, WCD, RPF, GRP, NMC, CWC, MTDC, and civil society groups, the DAG has taken major strides in recent months. So far, 24 FIRs have been registered, 42 women rescued (including 8 minors), and 44 accused arrested.
As part of the initiative, police have identified over 330 hotspots across the city, covering flats, lodges, spas, and highways being misused for trafficking. 22 facial recognition cameras have been installed in high-risk areas. Women help desks have been set up at all 33 police stations, while round-the-clock help centres at Cotton Market and Ganeshpeth bus stands were inaugurated by Guardian Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule.
In a meeting of DAG stakeholders, two Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) were unveiled — one for digital crime scene management, and another for action against private premises involved in trafficking. Nagpur Police also intensified campaigns like ‘Police Didi’, Damini Squad patrols, and Operation Shodh to trace missing children.
Principal Secretary Vinita Ved Singal stressed the need for transparency in adoption processes and identity tracking for rescued minors. Experts including former DGP Dr. P.M. Nair, DLSA Secretary Praveen Umale, and RPF’s Sreekumar Kurup shared insights.
Commissioner Singal reaffirmed that Operation Shakti is a long-term mission. “Like Operation Thunder and Operation U-Turn, this campaign will dismantle trafficking networks with technology, vigilance, and coordination,” he said.
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