NHRC Seeks Reports from Odisha and Uttar Pradesh Authorities in Alleged Trafficking and Sexual Exploitation Case of Tribal Minor

June 3, 2026 : The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has taken suo motu cognizance of a media report alleging the trafficking, sale, and repeated sexual assault of a 17-year-old tribal girl from Odisha’s Dhenkanal district in Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh. The Commission has issued notices to the Director General of Police of Odisha, the Director General of Police of Uttar Pradesh, and the District Magistrate of Dhenkanal, seeking a detailed report on the matter within two weeks.

According to the NHRC, the victim, a resident of the Kankadahada area of Dhenkanal district, was allegedly trafficked to Uttar Pradesh along with three other girls on the pretext of being provided employment. The Commission noted that the girl reportedly managed to escape with the assistance of a local advocate and approached the police in Jhansi. While her statement was recorded, no further action was allegedly taken except for providing her with a train ticket to return to Odisha. Upon her return, the Odisha Police recorded her statement and initiated an investigation.

Observing that the allegations, if true, raise serious concerns of human rights violations, the NHRC has directed the concerned authorities to submit a comprehensive report detailing the status of the investigation and the measures taken for the victim’s relief, protection, and rehabilitation.

The media report cited by the Commission alleged that the minor was confined in a house for nearly three months and repeatedly subjected to sexual assault. It further alleged that after becoming pregnant, she was forced to undergo an abortion without her consent. The victim was then allegedly sold to another person for Rs 50,000 and subjected to repeated sexual exploitation by multiple individuals for nearly two years before managing to escape.

The NHRC stated that it will examine the reports submitted by the authorities and monitor the matter in accordance with its mandate to safeguard human rights and ensure justice for victims of exploitation and abuse.

Official NHRC Press Release:
NHRC Press Release on the Case