Haribans Acharya Calls for Widespread Public Awareness Against Evolving Human Trafficking

Kathmandu. Senior artist Haribans Acharya has emphasized the need to raise widespread public awareness against human trafficking as its form is changing. Speaking at a program organized in Kathmandu on Tuesday on the occasion of World Human Trafficking Day, he stated that there is a need for widespread public awareness and political good governance against human trafficking, whose form has changed. Acharya recalled that they have been active in the campaign against human trafficking through art for a long time. He informed that he has been spreading awareness through television serials like 'Ratu', 'Chhori', and 'Tikeko Teen Mantar' and various songs, and stated that the current situation has become more challenging. He mentioned that the development of technology has made it easier for human traffickers with the misuse of mobile phones and social media, and it has become easier to lure ordinary people. He believes it is unfortunate that due to the country's political instability and unemployment, the desire of youth to go abroad is increasing, and traffickers are taking advantage of this by selling dreams. Artist Acharya commented that it is the height of immorality for people to be trafficked with the involvement of political leadership, targeting incidents like the fake Bhutanese refugee case. He expressed confidence that such problems can only be solved by moving forward with a new political culture and thinking. Acharya said, 'We have been raising awareness against human trafficking through programs like Raat, Chhori, Tikeko Teen Mantar since before.' He further said, 'Now this problem is not limited to the trafficking of daughters. Incidents of human trafficking by luring youth, children, and through various temptations are increasing. Therefore, it is necessary to take the awareness campaign forward in a more comprehensive manner.' Mentioning that mobile and social media have increased perversion along with good work, he said that crimes like human trafficking can be reduced only through new thinking, new political culture, and the conscious efforts of all. Expressing commitment to never shy away from his social responsibility, Acharya said that he will continue awareness programs in the coming days through audio-visual media. Expressing sadness over some negative elements spreading baseless propaganda about artists' social work, he suggested that the Nepal Police should take more effective steps to control cybercrime.