Shillong, Aug 8: National Commission for Women Chairperson Vijaya Rahatkar expressed concern over a worrying surge in HIV cases, rise in the number of single mothers and growing incidents of domestic violence in Meghalaya.
Rahatkar, who was in Shillong, chaired a review meeting with Chief Secretary Donald P Wahlang and Director General of Police Idashisha Nongrang.
Speaking to reporters, she said women are benefiting from government schemes and how effectively crucial laws are being enforced but the surge in domestic violence cases is alarming.
“We need sustained and immediate efforts to reverse this,” she emphasised.
She disclosed that the Director General of Police’s office had reported a noticeable rise in single motherhood and HIV infections among women— trends she called “deeply concerning.” The administration, she added, had assured her of swift action.
The discussions focused on the ground-level implementation of women-centric welfare schemes and the enforcement of laws such as the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act and the Domestic Violence Act.
Rahatkar also urged young women to be vigilant while sharing personal information or images on social media, stressing the importance of early detection and prevention of digital abuse.
During her visit, the NCW chief inspected a One Stop Centre and the women’s ward at Civil Hospital, Shillong. While she praised the cleanliness and upkeep of the facilities, she noted that some areas were overcrowded.
Rahatkar assured that the NCW will remain a committed partner in improving women’s welfare in the state. “I have pointed out critical gaps to the Chief Secretary. By addressing these together, we can accelerate progress. The NCW will always stand by the women of Meghalaya,” she stated.
The NCW Chairperson also called on Governor Chandrashekhar H C.H. Vijayashankar.
A detailed discussion was held on a range of pressing social issues like growing menace of drug abuse, the alarming trend of early pregnancies among adolescent girls and the rising incidence of Tuberculosis (TB) and HIV, concerning women in the state, a Raj Bhavan statement said.
The Governor stressed on the importance of coordinated efforts between government agencies, civil society, and community leaders to create awareness and strengthen preventive mechanisms. He appreciated the initiatives undertaken by the NCW to address such challenges and assured all possible support in furthering the cause of women’s welfare in Meghalaya.
Rahatkar expressed her deep concern over the vulnerabilities faced by young girls, especially in rural and semi-urban areas, and highlighted the need for sustained awareness campaigns, better access to healthcare, and targeted intervention programs.
