The Meghalaya Assembly’s committee on empowerment of women has called for more stringent laws to address the increasing cases of crimes against women and children in the state.
In a joint meeting with the corresponding committee from the Kerala Assembly today, the committee, chaired by Santa Mary Shylla MLA, stressed the urgent need for stronger legislation to prevent such crimes and deter offenders.
Shylla also outlined the committee’s efforts to track cases involving women and children through coordination with Deputy Commissioners and Superintendents of Police. Additionally, she noted that the committee has urged judges to expedite the processing of these cases.
In light of the recent horrific incident in Jaintia Hills, where a woman was severely burned by her husband in a gross incident of domestic violence, Shylla stated that the committee plans to visit the victim tomorrow to check on the victim’s condition and provide assistance.
When asked about the factors driving crimes against women and children in Meghalaya’s matrilineal society, Shylla identified economic challenges, drug addiction and unemployment as key contributors.
