15 October,2026 05:14 PM IST | Mumbai | Aishwarya Iyer
Maharashtra DGP Dr Sadanand Vasant Date (centre) presided over the inaugural session, stressing the need for thorough investigations, victim protection and sustained efforts to dismantle organised human trafficking networks. PIC/BY SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT
Cyber forensics, financial transaction trails and digital evidence were among the key areas of focus at Nyaya Setu 2026, a state-level conference on human trafficking investigations organised by the Maharashtra Police in Mumbai on Thursday.
Police Inspector Jaywant Jadhav and Krishnkumar Khandelwal of Maharashtra Cyber conducted a technical session on cyber forensics, tracing financial transactions and fund trails, and securing digital evidence in accordance with legal provisions.
The conference was attended by nodal officers of anti-human trafficking units (AHTUs) of Deputy Superintendent of Police rank, along with police officers and personnel from across Maharashtra.
Maharashtra Director General of Police Dr Sadanand Vasant Date presided over the inaugural session, stressing the need for thorough investigations, victim protection and sustained efforts to dismantle organised human trafficking networks.
The conference was organised in accordance with guidelines issued by the Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) and with its financial support. The ministry has emphasised regular state-level training, coordination among multiple agencies and collaboration with civil society organisations to address challenges of combating human trafficking, including inadequate training, gaps in public awareness and non-registration of cases.
Former DGP Dr PM Nair, an expert in anti-trafficking investigations, conducted sessions on emerging trafficking trends, changing modus operandi and investigation techniques, from initial reporting to the filing of chargesheets.
Women and Child Development Commissioner Varsha Laddha outlined government schemes, protection mechanisms and institutional rehabilitation frameworks for survivors. Advocate Geeta Godambe, former Assistant Director of Prosecution, discussed evidence presentation and challenges in securing convictions in court.
A session on trauma-informed responses, conducted by civil society partner Prakruthi, highlighted the role of non-governmental organisations in providing care and support to survivors after rescue. The conference concluded with a summary of action points and a vote of thanks by Inspector General of Police Sharda Raut.
