The Meghalaya Pradesh Mahila Congress has written to the Chief Minister to call for more police patrols and better CCTV coverage to protect schoolgirls in the city.
State Mahila Congress president Joplyn Scott Shylla said today that the Umsohsun harassment was “not only perverse and criminal but also a clear violation” of the victim’s dignity and safety.
“This shocking event has understandably created fear and anxiety among students and parents alike, highlighting the pressing issue of inadequate safety measures for school-going girls in our state. It is unacceptable that young girls cannot walk to school without the threat of harassment or abuse,” Shylla added.
The Mahila Congress called on the government to ensure increased patrolling by law enforcement near schools and along common routes used by students; install CCTV surveillance in identified vulnerable areas; implement strict and swift action against the perpetrator involved in the incident; conduct safety awareness programmes in schools and communities; and establish a dedicated helpline and support mechanism for students facing harassment.
A suspect in the case was arrested in Jorhat, Assam, today. CCTV footage of the incident had gone viral last week.
“Our children deserve to pursue their education in a safe and secure environment. We request your urgent intervention in addressing this matter and restoring a sense of safety among the students and their families,” Shylla said.