Promoting youth action against trafficking as part of World Day Against Trafficking in Persons

On July 30, 2025, the Indian Community Welfare Organisation (ICWO) and Mar Gregorios College of Arts & Science (MGC) launched the Anti-Human Trafficking Club (AHTC) at MGC in Chennai to mark World Day Against Trafficking in Persons. This club is the 616th in India, aimed at promoting awareness and action against human trafficking among youth. 

The event began with a prayer and the national anthem, followed by a welcome speech from Ms. L. S. Sugapriyaka, who highlighted the importance of teamwork, education, and youth involvement in raising awareness and creating a protective culture. Rev. Fr. Matthew Pallikunnel discussed the seriousness of trafficking, describing it as a modern form of slavery that affects over 50 million people worldwide, especially women and children. He encouraged participants to be vigilant and report any suspicious activities. 

Dr. R. Srikanth, the principal of MGC, emphasized the need for educational institutions to cultivate both academic knowledge and social consciousness among students. He pointed out that using resources like helplines and social media responsibly can help prevent trafficking and spread awareness. 

Ms. Titty Elizabeth Phillips provided an overview of trafficking in India, mentioning issues such as poverty and discrimination as underlying causes. She urged students and faculty to speak out against the problem and help restore dignity to victims. 

The keynote speaker, Dr. P. M. Nair, an expert on anti-human trafficking, warned that inaction equates to complicity. He shared alarming statistics about trafficking and encouraged the youth to verify job offers and seek help when needed. Dr. Nair also spoke about the role of digital grooming in exploiting young students, urging attendees to report such instances using the national cybercrime helpline, 1930. Students at MGC performed a powerful street play to highlight the emotional and physical toll of trafficking and the resilience of survivors. 

In a show of solidarity, 500 students formed a human formation spelling out "STOP HUMAN TRAFFICKING" and took a pledge to remain aware and proactive in their communities. The event featured Director Mr. Youreka and actress Miss. Vanthana Dharani, who spoke about their upcoming film, Lakshmi Lawrence Kadhal, which carries a strong social message and encourages youth to work towards a society free from prejudice. They emphasized the power of storytelling in raising awareness about critical social issues. 

Special thanks were given to Dr. Sudha for her support and to various individuals for their significant coordination efforts. Students and faculty from CTTE College also showed their support for the anti-trafficking initiative. 

The launch of the AHTC symbolizes India's growing youth-led movement to combat trafficking. Mr. A. J. Hariharan from ICWO launched the AHTC and shared the importance of student leadership and community resilience in the fight against exploitation. ICWO has set up a dedicated helpline for trafficking concerns at +91 9087 161 161.