Shillong, Jul 11: Concerns have been raised regarding workplace safety for employees operating during late-night hours after two young members of the Hajong community were found dead in the city last month.
Simanta Hajong (21) and Prinomi Hajong (22) were found dead under suspicious circumstances inside a roadside shop at Lumsohphoh, Nongthymmai on June 14. Authorities indicated a possible case of suicide by hanging, but this explanation has been disputed by the victims’ families and local groups.
The Hajong Students Youth Voice (HSYV) Federation Council in a statement today said their tragic death has prompted an urgent dialogue surrounding public safety and workers’ rights.
Pointing out that the Constitution places a paramount emphasis on the protection of human life and dignity, HYSV chairman Nobaram Hajong said it is the state’s responsibility to uphold workers’ health and safety.
He questioned the adherence of businesses to labour laws and whether adequate security measures, including CCTV surveillance and emergency response systems, are in practice. Hajong emphasised the necessity for authorities to conduct regular inspections to ensure compliance with safety regulations.
The HSYV said employees deserve the assurance of returning home safely after their shifts and called for a thorough and transparent investigation into the tragic deaths of the youth, to identify any potential breaches in safety standards or negligence that may have contributed to their deaths.
The HSYV said the tragedy serves as a wake-up call for the government of Meghalaya to enhance workplace safety policies for late-night operations.
