Meera is from Moradabad, where prostitution is a thriving business. Although she’s only 17 years old, she has a 11 month son. Each day she arrived in the red light area at 10 am to service customers until 5 pm. Aneela also grew up in Moradabad and in 2020, she was married at only 14 or 15 years of age. Sadly, her own husband forced her into prostitution a year into their marriage. Both girls had fallen into a rut from which there seemed no escape.
On June 4th at 2:15 in the afternoon, we were able to rescue Meera and Aneela from a brothel. The police arrested 5 people: the owner of the brothel, the brothel keeper and three customers.
After the rescue, Meera and Aneela showed hostility toward our team and the doctor trying to complete their medical exam. It is common for some victims to be antagonistic at first. They were likely brainwashed to believe prostitution is their fate. Their brothel keepers tell them lies and instill distrust toward the police and NGOs. After some time out of the brothel and in a safe environment, Meera and Aneela may start to warm up. A few weeks after the rescue, our social worker helped them move from temporary accommodations to a long-term shelter home where they can try new activities and experience life skills sessions. Thank you for bringing them freedom and the opportunity to restart their lives.