The Delhi High Court has issued a strong notice to the Delhi Police, demanding an explanation over alleged lapses in the custody management of eight girls, including minors and adults, rescued from a commercial sex trafficking racket operating in the Burari area of the capital.
The case was brought before the court through a writ petition (W.P.(CRL) 1691/2025) filed by two non-governmental organizations, collectively known as Just Rights For Children Alliance. The petition alleges serious procedural violations by law enforcement authorities during the post-rescue process.
"On 4th and 12th December 2024, eight girls were rescued from a sex trafficking racket in Burari, yet the police failed to present the minor victims before the Child Welfare Committee (CWC), as mandated by law."
— Petitioner's Counsel
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According to the petitioners, Section 31 of the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015 requires that all rescued minors must be produced before the Child Welfare Committee (CWC), which is the designated authority to determine their care, rehabilitation, and protection needs. This legal safeguard ensures the rescued children are not returned to harmful or exploitative environments.
However, it has been alleged that the police violated this legal requirement and instead released the girls back into unsafe surroundings. The NGOs involved expressed concern that such action not only breaches the law but also places the rescued victims at risk of being re-trafficked.
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"Releasing rescued girls without presenting them to the Child Welfare Committee violates their constitutional protections and increases the risk of re-trafficking."
— Advocate Prabhasahay Kaur (for the petitioners)
Further, the petition highlights that despite filing formal complaints with the Joint Commissioner of Police and the Deputy Commissioner of Police (North District) on 13 December 2024 and again on 7 January 2025, no action was taken by the authorities. The silence and inaction from senior police officials have further raised concerns about accountability and compliance with child protection laws.
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Justice Ravinder Dudeja, after hearing the matter, issued notice to the Delhi Police and directed them to file a status report within four weeks. The matter is now scheduled to be heard next on 17 July 2025.
"Issue notice. Status report to be filed within four weeks. Re-list on July 17, 2025."
— Hon’ble Justice Ravinder Dudeja
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The legal team for the petitioners includes advocates Ms. Prabhasahay Kaur, Ms. Taruna Panwar, Ms. Shubhra Agarwal, Ms. Rachna Tyagi, Mr. Bhuwan Ribhu, Ms. Shashi, and Ms. Harshita. Representing the respondents are Mr. Sanjeev Bhandari, ASC, along with Mr. Arjit Sharma, Mr. Nikunj Bindal, and Ms. Nishtha Dhall.
The case not only exposes alarming gaps in the law enforcement system but also calls attention to the importance of proper rehabilitation of trafficking victims, particularly minors. The court's direction aims to ensure accountability and adherence to legal procedures meant for the protection of vulnerable individuals.
Case Title: Just Rights For Children Alliance & Anr v. State Of NCT Of Delhi & Ors.
Case No.: W.P.(CRL) 1691/2025
Next Hearing Date: 17 July 2025
