In a major crackdown at the Sonepur Mela, one of Asia’s largest cattle fairs, the Bihar Police rescued five minor girls, including one from Nepal, during a late-night raid. The operation, which took place on Tuesday, followed reports of sexual exploitation and forced performances at makeshift theatres set up at the fair.

The girls, who hail from Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Nepal, were allegedly coerced into dancing late into the night and were being subjected to physical and emotional abuse. Authorities suspect that these theatres are linked to human trafficking networks that exploit young women under the guise of entertainment.

Police Raid at Sonepur Mela

The raid was prompted by a tip-off about a girl being forced into sexual acts inside one of the theatres. Acting swiftly, Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Dr. Kumar Ashish instructed teams to cordon off the fairground and search the theatres. The police, assisted by local NGOs, entered the venues one by one and freed the girls, who confirmed they had been forced into performing.

An FIR has been filed, and police are investigating the possibility of a larger human trafficking ring operating in the region. This action comes after the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) member, Priyank Kanoongo, alerted the authorities about the suspected exploitation at the fair.

Since May 2024, the Saran Police have rescued 279 girls from forced labor and prostitution in the district. The ongoing campaign against human trafficking has led to the arrest of 93 individuals, and investigations are ongoing to capture absconding accused.

Rescued minors taken to women’s safety center

The rescued minors have been taken to a women’s safety center where they will undergo counseling and legal support. Police have increased surveillance at the fair to prevent further exploitation, and the authorities are urging the public to report any such incidents to the helpline.

The operation has highlighted the urgent need for vigilance against human trafficking, especially in public spaces like fairs, where vulnerable minors can be exploited. The Sonepur Mela, which draws thousands of visitors every year, is now under closer scrutiny, with increased law enforcement presence to ensure the safety of women and children.

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