Crime against women sees a rise in Meghalaya

SHILLONG:

Social Welfare Department Director, D.D. Shira has expressed concern over the rise of crime and violence against women in Meghalaya with 350 cases were reported till August last year.

“We are witnessing a rise in crime against women despite the State being a matrilineal society,” Shira told reporters here today.

As per official figures, the total number of domestic violence cases reported from March 23, 2020, after the COVID-19 lockdown is 90.

Meanwhile, the total number of cases of crimes against women which was reported before the Meghalaya State Commission for Women during 2020 is 114.

As per the official figure in the police website, the number of rape cases which was reported across the State in 2018 was 89 while in 2019, there was a slight decline with 85 rape cases were reported throughout the State.

As per the official figure of the police, the number of kidnapping and abduction cases against women is 35 in 2018 and 25 in 2019.

The Social Welfare department director also stated that it is the prerogative of the State government to ensure the safety of every woman.

“The Home (police) department and the government are working hand in hand to ensure that we minimise the violence and crime against women in the State,” Shira said.

It may be mentioned that the State Government has tried to reach out to women who are in distress and affected by any form of violence in view of the COVID-19 lockdown.

The one-stop centre scheme which was started through the Nirbhaya scheme has helped women whose husband has provided none financial support during the lockdown.

(Edited by Laxmi Chyrmang)