Rescue of Minor Girls in Bihar

On July 2, 2025, Saran police conducted multiple raids on orchestra groups based on information from the National Human Rights Commission and intelligence from Narayani Seva Sansthan (NSS). These operations resulted in the rescue of six minor girls, aged between 15 and 17, who were victims of sexual exploitation. The rescued girls experienced severe abuse and had been trafficked from various regions including Bihar, West Bengal, Delhi, and even Nepal.

Key Facts:

• Rescue Operations: The operations targeted three specific groups: New Orchestra Group, Shiv Shakti Orchestra, and Muskan Orchestra and Musical Group. The orchestra owners, however, managed to evade capture and are currently at large.
• Victim Demographics: Among the total rescued, three girls were from Bihar and the others were from neighboring regions and countries. The youngest girl discovered was just 15 years old.
• Treatment of Victims: The rescued individuals disclosed that they were subjected to physical abuse and coerced into performing to vulgar songs. Refusal to comply resulted in violent punishments.
• Judicial Intervention: Prior to the raids, the Patna High Court heard a petition from Just Rights for Children (JRC) that prompted the issuance of a notice to the Bihar government, urging them to regulate and oversee orchestra groups to curtail trafficking and the sexual exploitation of minors.
• Law Enforcement Statistics: Since May 2024, a total of 194 girls have been rescued from prostitution in Saran district, with 24 cases registered against perpetrators and 61 arrests made. The ongoing police operations seek to apprehend remaining suspects.
• Narayani Seva Sansthan’s Role: This organization, a partner of JRC, has been actively campaigning against the exploitation of minor girls in these orchestra groups. Rituraj, the Secretary of NSS, acknowledged the government and administrative support which has enabled the police to enforce strict actions against traffickers and those exploiting minors.

Contextual Background:

• Geographical Significance: Saran district in Bihar serves as a hub for orchestra activities where minors are often lured from impoverished backgrounds with false promises of attractive employment opportunities.
• Continued Exploitation: The systemic exploitation involves the minors being forced to wear revealing attire and perform provocative dances, thereby leading many into deeper paths of prostitution.
• Legal Framework: The police registered the case under Ekma Police Station Case No. 256/25 to document the exploitation and abuse faced by the rescued individuals.

Police Statement:

A statement by the Saran police, under Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Dr. Kumar Ashish, affirmed their commitment to combat these illegal activities, reporting ongoing raids to ensure the safety of vulnerable minors and the arrest of exploiters.

Summary:

The operation showcases the growing recognition and response from law enforcement and civil society to combat the trafficking and exploitation of minors, particularly in entertainment sectors like orchestra groups. The ongoing legal and administrative measures emphasize the need for vigilance and regulation to protect the rights of children against pervasive threats of exploitation.

Important Points:

• Raids conducted by Saran police on July 2, 2025, rescued six minor girls from sexual exploitation.
• Three girls from Bihar and others from West Bengal, Delhi, and Nepal were victims.
• Significant prior judicial involvement through the Patna High Court, urging regulation of orchestra operations.
• Since May 2024, 194 girls rescued, 61 arrests made, and ongoing police operations continue.
• Narayani Seva Sansthan played a critical role in raising awareness and facilitating the operation against trafficking.