Institutional response to human trafficking: A qualitative exploration of Anti-Human Trafficking Units in West Bengal, India

Human trafficking is still prevalent and continues to be a significant challenge due to underreporting, uneven institutional response and the absence of resources and procedures. Within the international landscape, West Bengal, India, represents a high-risk region due to its porous borders, frequent climate-induced displacement, and entrenched socio-economic inequalities. This study explored the functioning of Anti-Human Trafficking Units (AHTUs) in West Bengal through a qualitative approach consisting of perspectives from trafficking survivors, non-governmental organisation (NGO) actors, and institutional stakeholders (i.e. Criminal Investigation Department (CID) AHTUs and district-level AHTUs). Purposive sampling was used to recruit 19 trafficking survivors, 5 AHTU personnel, and 9 NGO/civil society participants, including Sanjog and members of the Partners for Anti Trafficking network. Data were collected through open-ended interviews, focus group discussions with participants, document analysis, and field observations and were analysed thematically. Findings revealed that the institutional response to human trafficking cases varies greatly across West Bengal. AHTUs operating through CID were viewed to function effectively, particularly in the areas of communication, preparation of cases, and survivor assistance, as well as the procedures used to assist survivors. On the contrary, AHTUs at the district level were viewed to experience delays, poor coordination, and limited prioritisation and funding of human trafficking cases. NGOs were viewed as an important source of assistance, rehabilitation, and coordination; however, they are challenged by institutional barriers and limited financial resources. The results of this study indicate that West Bengal does have an anti-trafficking infrastructure; however, a major challenge lies in the lack of consistency of how the infrastructure functions. The study recommends the need to strengthen district-level capacity, build inter-agency coordination, and more consistently implement survivor-responsive practices to improve response to human trafficking in West Bengal.