The paper examines application of restorative justice principles in human trafficking cases in India through an international lens and best practices. Criminal justice system of India today is predominantly bases upon a deterrent and retributive model that tends to retraumatize victims. This article suggests a new direction towards a victim-centered, trauma-informed approach and claims that restorative justice provides a humane and effective solution that will more closely reflect India’s constitutional values and changing legal arena. Based on international literature, case studies, and restorative justice models from the United States and other countries, this study recommends a pilot restorative justice program responsive to India’s specific socio-legal environment. The paper also critically examines systemic issues, such as legal lacunae, stigma, and institutional biases, and suggests policy-level reforms prioritizing survivor agency, inter-agency coordination, and culturally appropriate practices.
Singh et al. (Sun,) studied this question.