Human Trafficking in Nagaland: A Socio-Cultural Perspective

Abstract

Human trafficking, only until recently, was an unheard of phenomenon in the state of Nagaland. As such, though this menace is steadily taking root and increasing in its network and operations in the state, many a time the people fail to comprehend the immensity and gravity of the problem. The evils, indignities, exploitation and violence associated with human trafficking are yet to be addressed effectively. We often argue and are of the opinion that literacy and globalization pave the way and open doors to more opportunities for its citizens in terms of livelihood and better standards of living. However at the same time, we as human beings often tend to overlook the dangers and consequences that exposing ourselves to these social changes, usually bring about. Therefore in this paper we review the social and cultural aspects and implications in understanding why the state of Nagaland is becoming prone to the evils of this social problem. This paper brings out instances and arguments of why human trafficking is increasing at the backdrop of a society that has a very rigid socio-cultural set up, where children and women, particularly women, are regarded as subordinate beings in the society and also the utter failure of the state machinery to provide sufficient livelihood opportunities to its citizens.