Siliguri: A human trafficking scare gripped Siliguri on Tuesday afternoon after four minor girls, students of two reputed government schools in the city, were rescued from Siliguri Junction railway station. The girls were allegedly being trafficked after being lured with money and other promises.
According to reports, a woman was frequently seen loitering near a school in Babupara over the past few days. She allegedly lured the minors. She arranged a toto to transport the girls from the school area to Siliguri Junction. However, when they were trying to purchase train tickets, Railway staff at the ticket counter grew suspicious. They contacted the family of one of the minors, which led to the entire incident coming to light. The suspect woman has not yet been traced.
The families of the rescued children have alleged that the girls were being taken to Assam with the intention of trafficking.
Upon receiving the news the Darjeeling District Legal Aid forum arrived at the police station. Amit Sarkar, president of the Forum said: “Cases like these are happening repeatedly in Siliguri. We are conducting awareness drives.”
The headmistress of one of the schools, however, stated that no complaints had been received about any unfamiliar woman loitering near the premises. “We have our security personnel posted and women security police force are also present near the school. Nevertheless, since allegations have surfaced, we are looking into the matter,” she said.