Human Trafficking case: Hyderabad woman gets 10-year jail term
HYDERABAD: The Nampally court has convicted Kalpana Goswamy, a 45-year-old resident of Prashanth Towers, Musheerabad, in a decade-old immoral trafficking case. This marks a significant step forward in the fight against human trafficking.
The court found Kalpana Goswamy guilty under Section 370 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) (punishment for human trafficking) and Sections 3, 4, and 5(1)(a) of the Immoral Traffic (Prevention) Act, 1956 (PIT Act). The judge sentenced her to 10 years of rigorous imprisonment and imposed a fine of Rs 4,000.
This conviction follows Musheerabad Police registering the case and moving it to trial as a Sessions Case. The charges involved trafficking and exploitation in violation of laws that prevent immoral trafficking and protect victims from sexual exploitation.
Although the press note did not disclose specific details of the trafficking ring, charges under Section 370 IPC indicate that Kalpana Goswamy compelled individuals into forced labor or exploitation through threats, coercion, or deception.
The sustained and coordinated efforts of the Victim Assistance Unit, Women Safety Wing, Hyderabad, led to this conviction. According to a press note from the Deputy Commissioner of Police, the unit regularly counseled and briefed victims, ensured their confidence and cooperation during the trial, and provided ongoing emotional and procedural support to secure consistent depositions before the Court.
The Women Safety Wing also emphasized the importance of effective coordination among the Victim Assistance Unit, Investigating Officer, and Court Duty Staff. This collaboration enabled the prosecution to present a strong, continuous chain of evidence and testimony and secure the conviction.
The conviction of Kalpana Goswamy reinforces that authorities will not tolerate human trafficking in Hyderabad. The Women Safety Wing’s victim-centric approach, which prioritizes survivors’ emotional well-being and cooperation, serves as a model for prosecuting sensitive cases.
