Rally against Upper Shillong rape
SHILLONG: As the agony and condemnation of the brutal rape and murder of the 19-year-old girl in Upper Shillong is yet to die down, people from different walks of life have now demanded that helpline number should be established in the state to deal with issues related to women besides setting up of fast track courts to try the crime cases.
The demand was made during a public rally organized by the Joint Action Committee of Seng Kynthei, Upper Shillong held in the city to protest against the brutal rape and killing of 19-year-old girl at 4 ½ Mile, Upper Shillong on March 17.
The rally, which kick started from state central library and culminated at Malki ground was participated by hundreds of people from all walks of life including students, NGOs, traditional heads and political leaders.
Speaking at the rally, FKJGP president Joe Marwein said that Meghalaya has witnessed increasing crimes against women and children and many rape and sexual harassment cases are still pending before the court for disposal.
Stating that there has been low conviction rate in such cases, Marwein said “We have proposed to the government on the need to have fast track courts to take up trial rape cases and appoint women judges, as they are considered to be more sensitive”.
Echoing similar views, adviser of the Lympung Ki Seng Kynthei MPR Lyngdoh said there is a need to conduct comprehensive study by experts, which will help the state government to tackle and address the root cause in the right manner. On the other hand, headman of 4th Mile Moris Shabong said that men are supposed to be protectors but sad to say that they have instead become enemies of mothers, sisters and daughters.
