In an effort to stop human trafficking and child prostitution, activist Asma S Ansari has been working in over 18 states to raise awareness and rescue victims. As the president of Sakina Foundation, she has already saved more than 150 children from trafficking and prostitution.
Human trafficking has been a major problem in India for many years, and although numerous people have been rescued, many still fall victim to this crime.
According to Asma Ansari, the lack of basic education plays a role in the exploitation of these individuals. The Sakina Foundation addresses the root cause of poverty by providing holistic education to help lift them out of poverty and transform their lives.
Asma’s initiative involves working with local NGOs in 18 states, including Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Assam, Punjab, Tamil Nadu, and Jharkhand. She has successfully rescued trafficked children who were forced into bonded labor, domestic work, and begging.
In 2021 alone, over 77,000 children were reported missing in India, a 31% increase compared to the previous year. Most of the trafficked children were between the ages of 10 and 15 and were forced into labor or prostitution.
Asma Ansari has faced threats from those involved in human trafficking during her rescue operations. However, she remains determined to save children and fight against trafficking and drug abuse.
Since the COVID-19 lockdown, Asma and her team have rescued over 150 minor girls from child prostitution and human trafficking. Their efforts have been recognized and awarded by the Telangana government.
The Sakina Foundation aims to prevent trafficking at the initial stages by empowering underprivileged children and youth through education and skill training. They also provide rehabilitation centers for victims of sex trafficking and help set up small businesses for their survival.
Asma Ansari runs an anti-drug campaign called ‘Our India, Our Responsibility’ and started with ‘Drug-free Hyderabad’ before expanding it to ‘Drug-free India.’
Through her work, Asma hopes to create awareness and change people’s mindsets regarding human trafficking and drug abuse.
