By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, May 29: Social activist Michael Kharsyntiew has voiced concerns about various “illegal” activities prevalent at Khyndai Lad such as drug trafficking, unregulated hawkers, sex work, unhygienic food vending, et al.
He warned that such unaddressed issues not only threaten to tarnish Shillong’s reputation as a prime tourist destination but also pose significant public health and safety risks.
Referring to sex work, Kharsyntiew maintained that it often correlates with criminal activities such as human trafficking, drug abuse and exploitation.
Kharsyntiew said that many sex workers operate under coercion, violence and intimidation from pimps and traffickers, which, he added, erodes the rule of law and fosters an environment where illicit activities flourish.
“Secondly, the visibility of prostitution can degrade the perceived safety and moral fabric of a neighbourhood. Residents, localities and businesses nearby may feel unsafe, leading to a decline in the quality of life and moral outlook of a tourist destination and thus can significantly tarnish the reputation and integrity of urban centres,” he said.
With regard to unregulated hawkers and unhygienic food vendors, Kharsyntiew pointed out that whilst street vending can add vibrancy to a city’s economic life, the lack of government regulation presents serious challenges.
“One of the primary concerns is public health and sanitation. Street food vendors often lack access to clean water, proper waste disposal, and adequate food storage facilities. This increases the risk of food-borne illnesses, which can lead to outbreaks, affecting large segments of the population. Moreover, the absence of health and municipal inspections means that the food safety standards are not enforced, further exacerbating the risk. Tourists, unfamiliar with the local food practices, are particularly vulnerable to such health risks,” the activist said.
Kharsyntiew also expressed concern about the issue of drug trafficking in the state capital.
Maintaining that Shillong’s strategic location and porous borders make it a transit point for drug traffickers, he said, “The proliferation of drugs not only threatens public health but also contributes to rising crime rates and societal decay. The presence of drugs in Khyndai Lad has led to an increase in addiction, particularly among the youth, undermining their future and destabilising the community.”