Bengaluru: The Governor of Karnataka, Thaawarchand Gehlot, recently inaugurated the ‘Gruha Shuddhi Abhiyan on Anti-Human Trafficking and Parenting Program’ organized by the Bharathiya Nurses And Allied Sangh, BMS And Dishabodh Foundation at Raj Bhavan.
In his inaugural address, the Governor described the initiative as a ‘parent and child protection awareness campaign’ aimed at addressing the growing challenges faced by school-going children and curbing rising incidents of abduction and exploitation.
“Saving childhood is not only a social responsibility but also a national duty. Let us move from ‘Gruha Shuddhi’ to ‘Samaj Shuddhi’,” he urged.
Highlighting the vulnerability of children in India, where nearly 40 percent of the population is below the age of 18, Gehlot expressed concern over the increasing cases of child abduction.
“Even in a progressive state like Karnataka, such incidents remain a challenge. This is not just a crime in law but also a serious social, psychological and moral crisis,” he said.
Citing official data, the Governor noted that over 2,000 children are reported missing in Karnataka every year, with nearly 10 percent never traced.
He pointed out that most of the victims are girls and expressed alarm over suspected links to human trafficking, sexual exploitation, child labour, organ trade and forced begging.
Acknowledging the efforts of law enforcement, the Governor said that both the State and Central governments have constituted special task forces to address the crisis, while police and security agencies are actively monitoring suspicious networks.
He emphasized that combating this menace requires collective action from parents, schools, citizens, NGOs, local bodies, law enforcement and civil society.
He also recalled the launch of the ‘Yuva Shuddhi Abhiyan’ from Raj Bhavan in November 2024, which has since evolved into a nationwide movement, named as ‘Nasha Mukth Bharath Abhiyan’.
“Through programmes like Yuva Shuddhi Abhiyan, we have achieved significant success in protecting our youth. The Gruha Shuddhi Abhiyan carries forward this mission by focusing on safeguarding children through awareness and vigilance,” he added.
Congratulating the collaborating organisations, Gehlot appreciated the joint efforts of the Narcotics Control Bureau, Bharathiya Nurses And Allied Sangh, BMS and Dishabodh Foundation for their commitment to public interest and national welfare.
The event was attended by Sachin Ghorpade, Zonal Director, Narcotics Control Bureau, Dr. Jayanthi, Vice Chancellor, Sapthagiri NPS University, K.K. Vijayakumar, National President of the Bharatheeya Nurses and Allied Sangh, Giju Thomas, its national secretary, and several other dignitaries.
