Groups working to end human trafficking in northeastern India have forged a network among Churches in the region to tackle the social menace. “When the Church stands together in faith and action, we can transform migration from a story of vulnerability into a journey of hope,” asserted Rohit Bhalla, national convener of the People Uniting to Stop Human Trafficking (PUSH) at a national conclave held at Guwahati, Assam. Northeastern India, he pointed out, is rich in faith and culture, but remains vulnerable as a source region for unsafe migration and trafficking.
Besides PUSH, the August 26-27 event at Don Bosco Inspiration, Kharguli, was attended by a network of civil society organizations, Churches, and anti-trafficking crusaders. As many as 65 delegates from 12 Churches and Christian organizations attended the program. They spent the two days in prayer, worship, and strategic dialogue to promote sustainable solutions.
The Commission for Migrants under the Conference of Catholic Bishops of India, Jesuit Refugee Service, and the Don Bosco network highlighted the Church’s shared mission to safeguard migrants and uphold the dignity of work.
While Bhalla emphasized faith communities’ role in combating trafficking, Aashima Samuel shared legal and social protection frameworks; K.A. Jayakumar highlighted development and policy perspectives; Salesian Fathers Joe Prabhu and George Mathew explored skill-building and livelihood opportunities; and Jayakumar, a retired Indian Administrative Service officer, provided governance insights. The conclave underscored the power of ecumenical collaboration in protecting vulnerable communities, strengthening livelihoods, and advancing God’s Kingdom through justice and solidarity.
