Religious Sisters Build Stronger Anti-Trafficking Network Across Bihar

PATNA, October 5, 2026: Fifty-one religious sisters from across Bihar gathered in Patna from September 27 to 29 for a regional assembly of AMRAT Talitha Kum India, focusing on stronger grassroots networks and coordinated action against human trafficking.

Held at Navjyoti Niketan under the theme “Capacity Building and Strengthening Networks,” the assembly sought to deepen participants’ understanding of trafficking, strengthen institutional partnerships and develop practical mechanisms to protect vulnerable communities.

The gathering drew inspiration from Isaiah 1:17, which calls for seeking justice and confronting oppression, and Jesus’ promise in John 10:10 that all may have “life … in all its fullness.”

Archbishop Sebastian Kallupura of Patna urged the Church to remain vigilant against exploitation and called for greater attention to vulnerable people at parish and community levels.

“The Church and its members bear a profound duty to stand courageously with those who are vulnerable, exploited, and marginalized,” he said.

AMRAT India National President Sr. Meera linked the Church’s response to trafficking with the parable of the Good Samaritan, stressing that the response must go beyond sympathy to active accompaniment, protection and restoration of dignity.

Adv. Suresh Kumar, founder of the Baal Mithra Foundation, presented case studies and visual material on trafficking, helping participants identify early warning signs. Resource person Sunil Jha focused on inter-agency cooperation and outlined ways of engaging law enforcement and administrative mechanisms, including Childline, Anti-Human Trafficking Units, Child Welfare Committees, police and schools.

During the discussions, participants explored strategies such as forming local vigilance committees, conducting village surveys, creating peer networks to trace missing persons and strengthening awareness programmes in parishes, women’s groups and schools. Skill development, pastoral care and safe community spaces for women and youth were also identified as important preventive measures.

Fr Cebin SJ, during the morning Mass, challenged participants with the question, “Where are our wings?”, encouraging them to look beyond institutional and personal limitations while responding to people facing crisis.

The assembly also highlighted the examples of Venerable Mary Ward, foundress of the Congregation of Jesus, and St Josephine Bakhita, whose experience of slavery and later religious life was presented as a witness to hope and transformation.

Sr Ancy CJ presented the regional annual report, while Regional Treasurer Sr Dorothy presented the financial report. Fifteen new participants formally joined AMRAT India during the gathering.

The assembly concluded with a renewed commitment to grassroots vigilance, civic partnerships and coordinated action to prevent trafficking and protect vulnerable people across Bihar.

By Catholic Connect Reporter