PATNA, July 4 -- Those running orchestra groups in Bihar will now be required to submit an undertaking affirming that there are no minors in their teams while applying for a licence. The directive was issued by the Bihar police headquarters (PHQ) to all district Superintendents of Police (SPs) and Senior Superintendents of Police (SSPs). The move follows a strong reprimand from the Patna High Court, which took serious note of the exploitation of children under the guise of orchestra and dance groups. The court had directed the state government to take immediate action and termed child trafficking a grave issue. It also served notice to the state, seeking a response within two weeks on the regulation of such groups. Acting promptly, the PHQ instructed all SPs to deny licences to any orchestra group that has been chargesheeted in the past. District officials were also directed to invoke stringent laws such as the POCSO Act, Juvenile Justice Act, and Immoral Trafficking Prevention Act against traffickers and orchestra organisers found engaging minors in illegal activities. The PHQ further ordered the sealing of premises where flesh trade or illegal orchestra performances are being conducted and the confiscation of such properties. The Government Railway Police (GRP) has been more effective in tackling child trafficking via trains. In 2024, the GRP had rescued 710 minors....