The new Chairperson of the Meghalaya State Commission for Women (MSCW), Iamonlang Syiem, has been appointed to the role for three years, quelling fears that the commission would have to look for a new chief soon as its term is set to end in December.
Until Syiem was appointed last month, the commission was rudderless as it had been without a Chairperson since its previous head, Phidalia Toi, was removed after she reportedly took part in a political rally for a particular candidate ahead of the state elections early last year.
Syiem was formerly the Chairperson of the Meghalaya State Commission for Protection of Child Rights. She stepped down from that role on March 1 after attaining the age of 65. However, the state cabinet decided to increase the age limit for the MSCW from 65 to 70, thereby allowing Syiem to take on the new role.
In a notification dated June 27 but shared with the press today, the Meghalaya Governor appointed Syiem for a period of three years and the MSCW Chairperson from the date of joining. It is unknown whether the term of the current commission will be extended to fit this appointment.