Riding along trafficking routes from Bangalore to Mumbai 

Initiative to raise awareness on human trafficking

Bangalore, Oct 28: In a bold and impactful endeavor to combat the harrowing issue of human trafficking, Oasis India’s Mukthi Bike Challenge is set to embark on an inspiring journey from Bangalore to Mumbai, spanning from October 28th to November 4th, 2023. In India, 8 children were trafficked every day in 2021 according to the Crime in India Report, National Crime Records Bureau 2021. 

In Karnataka’s Bengaluru, as recently as February 2023, 18 children, 22 women, and 7 men were among 55 persons rescued by the CCB police from a human trafficking racket. The victims were forced to beg at traffic intersections throughout the city. Authorities suspect that the children were forcibly drugged and carried by women in their arms to elicit sympathy from bystanders. 

These alarming revelation highlights the urgent need for awareness and action. Mukthi Bike Challenge, an initiative by Oasis India, has been at the forefront of addressing this critical issue since its inception in 2017.

Now, in 2023, the event is back with even greater determination. Eight passionate individuals, four from overseas and four from India, united by a shared commitment to giving a voice to trafficking victims, will kick-start this momentous event in Bangalore on October 28th, 2023, starting at 8:30 a.m.

The event commenced at St. Joseph’s High School, Fr Briand Square, New Tharagupet, Mysore Road, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560002.

The journey took the riders through a challenging route, encompassing Hassan, Mangalore, Udupi, Kumta, Belgaum, Miraj, Pune, and will culminate in Mumbai on November 4th, 2023. The closing event will be held on November 4th at 11:00 a.m. at YMCA International House, 18, YMCA Rd, Mumbai Central, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400008.

During the bike ride, the Center for Social Action from Christ University, Bangalore, will perform impactful street plays aimed at enlightening the general public, colleges, schools, and various institutions about the harsh reality of trafficking in India.

These performances will also educate on how to identify signs of trafficking and protect vulnerable women and children. Mukthi, meaning ‘freedom,’ epitomizes the goal of Oasis’ signature event: riding for freedom and giving a resounding voice to the victims of trafficking.

The funds raised through this event will be channeled into Oasis India’s grassroots efforts to empower women, children, and men who have fallen victim to abuse and trafficking.

 Program organiser Vishwas Udgirkar, Daniel Jabaraj, Santhosh Police Sub-inspector, Fr. Deepak Joseph K. SMM Manager & Correspondent St. Joseph’s Educational Institutions Bangalore, Sundeep Sadarangani. President Oasis Board, Mangneo Lhungdim Executive Director Oasis India,

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