Meghalaya Sees Surge in Crimes Against Women and Children, Minister Calls for Stronger Action

Social Welfare Minister Paul Lyngdoh highlights the need for faster action and better support systems.

The Social Welfare Department of Meghalaya has raised serious concerns about the growing number of crimes against women and children in the state. Social Welfare Minister Paul Lyngdoh, speaking to the media today, highlighted a sharp increase in digital crimes against women, with 18 cases reported so far. Minister stressed the need to strengthen the department, particularly in cases where delays occur.

Minister Lyngdoh also announced plans to integrate the department’s information system with the Secretariat, allowing real-time monitoring of data. This, he said, would enable quicker corrective measures and improve response times.

This year alone, 60 cases of domestic violence have been reported to the Women and Child Care control room, underscoring the urgent need for comprehensive support systems.

The Minister expressed concern over the rise in child abuse cases, particularly in East Khasi Hills District, the state’s most populous region that includes Shillong, a major transit hub with a large migrant and student population. A total of 315 cases of crimes against children have been recorded this year, including 51 instances of child abuse and 11 cases of missing children.

Minister Lyngdoh urged the public to report incidents of abuse and domestic violence, emphasizing that while Meghalaya remains one of the safest places for women and children, societal attitudes often lead to these issues being overlooked. He called for more proactive engagement from women’s organizations and community groups.

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