Agartala, Nov 13 : A minor girl from Tripura’s capital Agartala, who was allegedly lured to Bengaluru on the promise of a film audition, has been rescued after remaining missing for several weeks following a coordinated search by her family members, social activists and volunteers, sources said.
The girl has been reunited with her family, while allegations surrounding her disappearance have raised concerns over possible trafficking and exploitation of minors through false promises of opportunities in the entertainment industry.
According to the girl’s statement, a woman identified as Nishima Ben approached her on October 13, offering to arrange an opportunity to audition for films in Bengaluru. Initially reluctant to travel alone, the girl agreed after being assured that the woman would join her within 15 days.
As she lacked sufficient money for the journey, she was allegedly advised to mortgage her gold chain. A person identified as Yuvraj Chowdhury reportedly took the jewellery as security and provided Rs 30,000. A flight ticket to Bengaluru was subsequently arranged.
However, the promised audition allegedly never materialised. After reaching Bengaluru, she was taken from the airport to an unfamiliar location and informed that no shooting was scheduled and that she would have to undertake other work.
The girl alleged that her mobile phone was damaged and her SIM card removed, preventing her from contacting her family. She further claimed that she was confined and money was demanded from her relatives for her release.
According to her statement, the demand initially stood at Rs 5 lakh, was subsequently increased to Rs 8 lakh and later reduced to Rs 2 lakh.
She has named Nishima Ben, Yuvraj Chowdhury, Naveen Chowdhury and Inzamamul Haque in connection with the incident. The allegations are yet to be independently verified.
Her father approached the police following her disappearance and travelled to Mumbai on October 14 to search for her. After four days of unsuccessful efforts, he returned to Tripura.
The search gained momentum after social activist Sumit contacted the family with information about her possible whereabouts in Bengaluru.
Volunteers, including Nagesh of Hindu Maha Sangh, joined the operation and eventually traced the girl to a location around 90 km from Bengaluru airport.
Her father reportedly found her there along with several other children. Volunteers intervened when some individuals allegedly attempted to take away the other children as the family prepared to leave.
Social activist Khokon Chandra Pal said volunteers in Bengaluru and Mumbai coordinated efforts to locate the girl. He also claimed that Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha had been monitoring developments.
The incident has highlighted concerns over the safety of minors allegedly lured outside their home states through promises of film auditions and employment opportunities.
