KATHMANDU: The Women and Social Affairs Committee under the House of Representatives (HoR) has decided to conduct a comprehensive review of the implementation of the Human Trafficking and Transportation (Control) Act, 2008.
At a meeting held on Wednesday, the Committee concluded that a review was necessary to strengthen the prevention of human trafficking, ensure better protection for vulnerable communities, and guarantee access to justice for survivors.
Committee Chairperson Kiran Kumar Shah said the decision aims to safeguard the dignity, freedom, and fundamental rights of survivors of human trafficking and bring those responsible for these crimes, which often have international links, under the purview of the law.
“The Committee has agreed to assess how the Act is being implemented across different agencies and regions,” Shah said. “Our goal is to ensure the law is not just on paper but is effectively enforced to dismantle trafficking networks and support victims.”
The Committee emphasized the importance of timely intervention in areas where trafficking risks are high, especially among economically and socially vulnerable populations. Members of the Committee stressed the need for inter-agency coordination, better victim protection measures, and survivor-centered justice systems.
The Act, introduced in 2008, criminalizes all forms of human trafficking and illegal transportation and mandates stringent punishments for offenders. However, rights groups and activists have long pointed out significant gaps in its enforcement, particularly at the local level.
The Committee’s review is expected to include consultations with stakeholders, survivors, civil society organizations, and law enforcement bodies. Based on the findings, it may recommend amendments to improve the law’s effectiveness and accountability mechanisms.
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