Shillong, Dec 18: The Committee on Empowerment of Women on Tuesday paid a visit to the survivor of a domestic violence incident at Niriang village, Thadlaskein Block in West Jaintia Hills.
The victim, a mother of six children, was reportedly set on fire by her husband.
Committee chairperson, Santa Mary Shylla was accompanied by members North Shillong MLA Adelbert Nongrum; Jowai MLA Wailadmiki Shylla, and officials from the Meghalaya Legislative Assembly Secretariat.
“This horrific act has left us all in shock and sadness,” said the chairperson.
Assuring the public that the committee, in coordination with the local MLA, is working diligently to ensure the victim receives the highest quality of treatment, she emphasized that the government is fully committed to supporting these efforts. “The extent of the damage inflicted upon her may take months or even years to heal, but we will stand by her side throughout this journey. To the other members of her household, please know that we are here for you at all times.”
The chairperson also urged the Police Department to carry out a thorough investigation into the incident, emphasizing the severity of the crime. “The offender has committed a grave act, and justice must be swift and severe. He must not escape the full force of the law,” she stated.
Meanwhile, Nongrum assured the public that the panel is committed to following up on the matter and expressed confidence that both the government and the authorities will effectively fulfill their responsibilities. “Those who commit such heinous acts will face the consequences of their actions,” he added.
“In our community, we have a duty to watch out for one another. Silence in the face of such events is unacceptable. We must speak out to ensure that these tragedies are not repeated in our land,” he urged.
Jowai MLA highlighted several schemes offered by both the Central and State Governments that the survivor can avail, including Ayushman Bharat and the Victim Compensation Scheme.
He explained, “The Victim Compensation Scheme assists victims providing compensation ranging from Rs. 3 lakhs to Rs. 7 lakhs. I inquired about this before arriving here and consulted with the Legal Service Authority, requesting them to process it urgently for immediate support.”
