Overview

• A division bench led by Acting Chief Justice Ashutosh Kumar directed the Bihar government to file a comprehensive response by July 25 on allegations of minor girls being trafficked and exploited in dance, orchestra and theatre groups.
• The court mandated that state authorities launch immediate protective measures whenever fresh reports of child trafficking emerge in any performing arts ensemble.
• Just Rights for Children highlighted rescue operations in Rohtas, Saran and Gopalganj districts that freed dozens of underage performers during recent administration raids.
• The petitioner has urged the formulation of a statewide strategy involving NGOs, local administrations and cultural bodies to register, regulate and monitor informal performance troupes.
• The High Court named the Women and Child Development Corporation alongside the state government to collaborate with civil society in drafting and enforcing the child protection framework.