In the past decade, Meghalaya has recorded seven cases of human trafficking, with one case each reported in 2016, 2018, and 2021, and two cases each in 2019 and 2022
By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Aug 21: Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong has stressed on the need to strengthen existing laws to effectively combat human trafficking in Meghalaya while speaking at the inaugural function of the State Level Conference on Human Trafficking, organised by the Meghalaya Police on Wednesday.
Tynsong, who also oversees the Home (Police) department, highlighted the necessity of revisiting both central and state laws concerning this issue.
“There are laws in place at both the central and state levels to address human trafficking, but I believe there is a need to revisit and strengthen these laws, particularly for Meghalaya,” Tynsong stated. He urged the police department to provide detailed observations and suggestions following the conference’s discussions, promising that the government would take necessary steps, whether through amendments or notifications, to enhance the current legal framework.
The deputy CM emphasised on the importance of a more aggressive approach to tackling human trafficking and underscored the need for collaboration with various stakeholders, including local administration at the village level, to ensure a comprehensive response. “The engagement of law enforcers alone is not enough; we must involve the local administration to address this issue effectively,” he said.
In the past decade, Meghalaya has recorded seven cases of human trafficking, with one case each reported in 2016, 2018, and 2021, and two cases each in 2019 and 2022.
Addressing the conference, Law Minister Ampareen Lyngdoh highlighted the need to provide suitable assistance to victims of human trafficking. “It is high time we address the gaps that hinder our ability to protect and support those who have been trafficked and endured such traumatic experiences,” Lyngdoh said. She urged the police department to submit recommendations to bridge these gaps, ensuring that the laws are not just on paper but are effectively implemented to rescue citizens in distress.
Lyngdoh also raised concerns about the adequacy of law providers, advocates, and public prosecutors in the state, emphasising the importance of having sufficient legal resources to tackle human trafficking.
The conference saw the participation of key figures, including Director General of Police (DGP) Idashisha Nongrang, Meghalaya State Commission for Women (MSCW) Chairperson Iamonlang M Syiem, and senior police officials, among others.