On December 11th 2019, JVI assisted local partners in rescuing 13-year-old Chandni* from a household where she was forced to work as a domestic helper. Chandni was only 8 years old when she was trafficked from Jharkhand to Delhi for work.
Chandni’s typical day consisted of 18 hours of laboring without pay. She did not receive adequate nutrition and was forced to live in a bathroom. The employer did not allow her to leave the house or talk to her parents. Chandni disclosed that she had also been sexually abused.
The rescue team escorted Chandni to the Child Welfare Committee (CWC) to record her statement. A police complaint was filed against the employer under provisions of the Child Labour Act and Juvenile Justice Act and JVI lawyers are following up on the case to ensure he is held accountable. Chandni is currently residing in an aftercare home. She is attending a vocational training program and resuming her education. Chandni now has advocates to help her move forward with new hope for her future and reintegration with family members when ready.
*Name changed to protect identity
