Shillong, November 11, 2025: Amidst the rise in cases of crimes against women and children in 2025, and with Meghalaya recording 658 cases of crimes against women and 556 cases of crimes against children in 2024, the state government on Tuesday convened a high-level consultative meeting at the State Convention Centre Auditorium in Shillong to address the alarming trend and strengthen protective mechanisms.
The meeting brought together key stakeholders and was chaired by the Adviser to the Government of Meghalaya, Social Welfare Department, Paul Lyngdoh, and co-chaired by the Chairpersons of the Meghalaya State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (SCPCR) and the Meghalaya State Commission for Women (MSCW).
Adviser Paul Lyngdoh underscored the government’s firm commitment to safeguarding women and children, stating that Meghalaya’s political leadership was “committed to strengthening protection for women and children.” Referring to the recent Sohra witchcraft incident, Lyngdoh said the swift government response reflected the department’s proactive stance. He also commended the police and the Anti-Narcotics Task Force (ANTF) for their “tireless efforts in combating drug trafficking,” adding that such actions “restore public confidence in the system.”
SCPCR Chairperson Agatha Sangma said the consultation was initiated by Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma in light of the increasing number of crimes against women and children. Emphasizing the need for a holistic approach, she called for “greater awareness of the POCSO Act, counsellors in schools, Child Safety Committees, and reduced screen time for children,” while also suggesting “flexible hours for working mothers.”
MSCW Chairperson Iamon Syiem voiced concern over the growing number of petitions from single mothers and the rising instances of domestic violence and workplace harassment. She urged the need for “systematic data collection on crimes against women” and advocated for “mentoring young men to respect women.”
Both commissions reiterated their collective commitment to ensuring the safety and dignity of women and children through inter-agency collaboration, awareness campaigns, and strengthened legal enforcement.
The high-level consultation aimed to review existing mechanisms, enhance coordination among departments, and devise actionable strategies to combat gender-based violence and child abuse across Meghalaya.
