Assembly panel for stricter laws to prevent crime against women and children

SHILLONG, Dec 16: The Meghalaya Assembly Committee on Empowerment of Women has called for stricter laws to address and reduce crimes against women and children in the state. The committee, led by its Chairperson, Santa Mary Shylla, held a joint meeting on Monday with its counterpart from the Kerala Legislative Assembly.
Speaking to media persons after the meeting, Shylla emphasised the need for stricter laws to tackle the growing number of crimes against women and children. She stated that such laws should act as a strong deterrent to prevent such offenses.
She added that the commission is actively monitoring several cases involving crimes against women and children through the Deputy Commissioners (DCs) and Superintendents of Police (SPs). Additionally, the commission has urged judges to expedite the disposal of all pending cases involving crimes against women and children.
Referring to the recent horrific incident in Jaintia Hills, where a woman was burned by her husband, Shylla said the committee would visit the victim on Tuesday to check on her health and provide assistance.
When asked about the underlying causes of crimes against women and children in matrilineal Meghalaya, Shylla pointed to economic challenges, drug abuse, and unemployment as major contributing factors.