By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Sep 9: Growing visibility of prostitution at Khyndai Lad, the state’s prominent commercial place, became one of the topics of debate in the Assembly on Tuesday after TMC legislator Miani D Shira flagged the “alarming” issue while participating in the special motion on alarming increase of drug addicts and people with HIV in the state and its impact.
Shira argued that the surge in sex work is closely tied to the sharp rise in HIV cases and substance abuse, describing them as inseparable crises. According to her, the increase in HIV positives is directly linked to “open and increased prostitution” across the city.
Reflecting on her three decades in Shillong, the Ampati MLA said the present situation was unprecedented. She pointed to Police Bazar, the stretch near the SP’s office, and even the vicinity of the Governor’s House as areas where the changes are stark. As a woman, she admitted it was deeply distressing to stand in the House and raise such concerns.
Describing the trend as both “alarming and unfortunate,” Shira urged the government and police to act without delay, while pressing for the involvement of NGOs, churches, religious groups and civil society in the fight against this menace.
‘Remove stigma’
On the HIV front, she called for testing facilities at all primary health centres to remove stigma, proper counselling for patients, and easier access to medication. She also warned that drug addiction had spread well beyond Shillong, with nearly 10% of state’s population affected, including large numbers in rural areas.
The MLA further pushed for the establishment of de-addiction and rehabilitation centres in every district, with a special focus on facilities for women, arguing that most interventions remain urban-centric. “We cannot afford to ignore it any longer,” she stressed.