Justice Alok Jain, presiding over the case, has directed the Station House Officer (SHO) of the relevant police station to collaborate with the victim’s family to ascertain her current location through audio or video communication.
PUNJAB: Today (7th June): A young woman from Phillaur, Jalandhar, has reportedly been sold in Bahrain by her live-in partner. The Punjab and Haryana High Court has taken cognizance of the matter, issuing orders to both central and state governments for the immediate rescue of the victim.
Justice Alok Jain, presiding over the case, has directed the Station House Officer (SHO) of the relevant police station to collaborate with the victim’s family to ascertain her current location through audio or video communication.
This information is to be relayed by the Indian Embassy in Bahrain to facilitate a safe extraction. The alarming situation came to light following a petition filed by the distressed parents of the girl, seeking the court’s intervention.
Responding to the plea, Justice Jain has demanded a comprehensive report from the Ministry of External Affairs within 15 days, outlining the steps taken to secure the woman’s safety. The court learned from a previously recorded video call—submitted during the hearings—that the victim fears for her life, claiming she was sold and could be harmed at any moment. This revelation has heightened concerns over her well-being and the urgency of the situation.
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The judicial directions also included orders for the Indian Embassy in Qatar, initially involved in the case, to expedite their investigation and ensure the woman’s welfare. Additionally, the court has mandated that once rescued, the woman should be allowed to video call her family, confirming her safety directly.
The High Court’s intervention underscores the critical nature of the situation and the urgent need for a coordinated effort between various governmental agencies to ensure the young woman’s safe return. This case highlights the broader issue of human trafficking and the exploitation of vulnerable individuals, necessitating stringent measures and vigilant monitoring to prevent such incidents in the future.
The parents of the girl have expressed their deep anguish and hope for the swift action of the authorities, praying for their daughter’s safe return. The international community’s involvement, especially the Indian embassies in Bahrain and Qatar, is crucial in navigating the complexities of cross-border legal and diplomatic challenges to rescue and protect the victim.
The Ministry of External Affairs is expected to work closely with the Bahrain authorities to expedite the process. The court’s directive for a detailed report within 15 days reflects the urgency and seriousness with which the judiciary is handling the case. As the investigation progresses, the collaboration between the family, local police, and international bodies will be vital in locating and rescuing the victim.
