• Missing NJP girl rescued from Odisha in joint op
    Times of India | 9 April 2025
  • Kolkata: A coordinated effort between multiple law enforcement agencies and NGOs resulted in the rescue of a minor girl from Odisha nearly a month after she went missing from New Jalpaiguri (NJP).

    The anti-human trafficking unit of BSF North Bengal started the investigation on March 5 following a complaint filed at NJP Police Station. The primary suspect was Shakti Prasad Panda, who was traced to Balasore in Odisha. In a joint operation involving NJP Police, Balasore Sadar Police, and NGOs Shakti Vahini and Handicapped Welfare Institute, the girl was rescued from Tirtol, Odisha, on March 14. She was placed in a local shelter home for temporary protection.

    "This rescue operation demonstrates the importance of inter-state cooperation in combating human trafficking," said a BSF spokesperson, adding, "The swift coordination between multiple agencies was crucial to the operation's success."

    On March 23, the girl was handed over to NJP Police and presented before the Child Welfare Committee. Following mandatory medical examination, court proceedings, and submission of a social investigation report, she was reunited with her guardian on April 7.

    The investigation into the suspect's involvement continues, with authorities preparing to file formal charges.
  • Link to this news (Times of India)