Victims of Human Trafficking: A Victimological and Human Rights Juristic Perspective

Human trafficking deprives people of their dignity, freedom and ability to make choices about their own lives. This goes far beyond a breach of law and order. The suffering often begins with false promises during recruitment and continues through coercion and exploitation. This may persist even after rescue when survivors face social stigma or inadequate support from institutions. This study examines trafficking through victimology and human-rights perspectives. It focusses on the relationship between structural vulnerability and organised exploitation. It examines human trafficking from different perspectives, beginning with its definition under international law and the factors that contribute to the crime. It discusses how victims are recruited and exploited, the protections available under the Indian Constitution and relevant legislation and the approach taken by the Supreme Court in selected cases. It also looks at the psychological and social difficulties survivors face, including the challenges of obtaining compensation and rebuilding their lives. The study adopts a doctrinal research methodology, examining statutory provisions, international instruments and selected judicial decisions. The paper argues that rescuing victims and prosecuting offenders alone cannot address the full impact of trafficking. Survivors also need protection from further harm, compensation, witness protection where necessary and continued support to rebuild their lives. The effectiveness of anti-trafficking measures must therefore be judged not only by the number of convictions but also by whether survivors are able to regain their independence, security and dignity.