Shillong, Dec 17: The Committee on Empowerment of Women, headed by Santa Mary Shylla, visited the survivor of domestic violence in Niriang Village, Thadlaskein Block, West Jaintia Hills. The victim, a mother of six children, including one-and-a-half-year-old child was set on fire by her husband.
The Chairperson was accompanied by Committee Member Adelbert Nongrum, Jowai MLA Wailadmiki Shylla, and officials from the Meghalaya Legislative Assembly Secretariat.
The chairperson expressed shock over the incident and assured the public that the committee, in coordination with the local MLA, is working to ensure the victim receives medical treatment. “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”, she said.
The chairperson also urged the police to carry out an 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 law,” she added.
Committee Member Adelbert Nongrum assured the public that the Committee is committed to following up on the matter.
“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,” Nongrum said.
Jowai MLA Wailadmiki Shylla highlighted several schemes offered by both the Central and State Governments that the survivor can avail, including Ayushman Bharat and the Victim Compensation Scheme.
“The Victim Compensation Scheme provides compensation ranging from Rs. 3 lakhs to Rs. 7 lakh. I inquired about this before arriving here and consulted with the Legal Service Authority, requesting them to process it urgently for immediate support”, he added.
