odisha news: Bhubaneswar, (Reporterspen), Feb 17: A staggering 36,420 women and 8,403 children have gone missing in Odisha between 2020 and 2024, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi informed the State Assembly on Monday.
Responding to a query from MLA Chakramani Kanhar, CM Majhi provided a written statement revealing that 421 women and girls have fallen victim to human trafficking, with many being lured and transported across state borders by illegal middlemen. To combat such activities, law enforcement agencies have intensified their operations, leading to the arrest of 453 individuals involved in trafficking networks.
The Chief Minister also emphasized the state’s rescue efforts, stating that 1,417 women and 1,857 children have been successfully located and rehabilitated. He assured that the government remains committed to tracking and recovering missing individuals while strengthening measures against trafficking.
Additionally, in a major crackdown on child labor, 748 children have been rescued over the last four years. Authorities continue to monitor vulnerable areas and take strict action against those exploiting minors for labor.
The government has urged families to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activities, ensuring better protection for women and children across the state.
