Human rights groups in the country had long been campaigning to bring an end to the harm caused to women and children. Adapting the Prevention of Women and Children Repression Act, 1995 was one of their major successes. The act clearly mentions strict, rigorous punishments, including capital punishment, for the violators. And it was assumed that violence or repression against women and children would be reduced considerably after the law was enacted. But the reality was telling us a different story. Violent acts against children and women continued to take place -- some were reported, some just faded in oblivion.

Trafficking in women and children, either forcibly or deceptively, was one of many repressive acts committed against them. The law did not seem to have any tangible effect on those who were involved in this crime. Hence Saleha Khatun's son and her brother ended up as camel jockeys in Dubai while the relatives of Anguri Begum still await for news about her and her two-year old son. The only respite, if it is at all any, is the life sentences ordered against the traffickers. But one thing is certain -- strict law or punishment is simply not enough. Awareness at the community level must be encouraged more vigorously. At the same time, vigilance both in the localities and border areas must be stepped up. It has to be a collective effort.