Date of Publication: 25 April 2026
Source of Information: Local Crime Branch (LCB), Gujarat, and international media outlets
Issued By: Japan-Bangladesh Human Rights (JBHR)
Japan-Bangladesh Human Rights (JBHR) expresses deep concern and strong condemnation regarding the rescue of 49 Bangladeshi women from an international human trafficking network during a special operation in Bharuch district of Gujarat, India.
In December 2025, a coordinated operation by the Local Crime Branch (LCB) and Special Operations Group (SOG) exposed a large trafficking network, which is considered a serious violation of the UN “Palermo Protocol” and international human rights conventions.
According to collected information, the principal accused (kingpin), Faruk Sheikh, had been operating from West Bengal for over a decade using forged identity documents and trafficking vulnerable women from Bangladesh through false job promises.
Victims reported that traffickers confiscated their identity documents, isolated them from their families, and subjected them to severe physical and psychological abuse, forcing them into inhumane conditions.
JBHR strongly urges the Governments of India and Bangladesh to ensure swift justice, medical care, psychosocial support, and safe repatriation of all victims.
The organization emphasizes that victims must be recognized as survivors of human trafficking, not illegal migrants, and must receive full legal protection.
JBHR further calls for strengthened border surveillance by BGB and BSF, improved intelligence sharing, and enhanced bilateral cooperation to dismantle trafficking networks.
International donor agencies and human rights organizations are urged to support rehabilitation and reintegration programs for survivors.
The organization stresses public awareness in border regions and alternative employment opportunities to prevent such crimes in the future.
JBHR will continue monitoring this case until full justice and safe repatriation are ensured.
Emergency Contact: info@japanbhr.org
Website: www.japanbhr.org
Head Office: Japan & Bangladesh (JBHR)