National women’s panel chief concerned over stalking

Shillong, June 2: National Women’s Commission chief Vijaya Kishore Rahatkar has expressed concern over stalking incidents affecting women.

During a visit to Shillong on May 31, she stressed the need to create awareness to contain the trend.

She met Iamonlang Syiem, the Chairperson, and members of the state commission for women on the same day and discussed issues concerning women in the state .

When asked about stalking cases in the state, Syiem said the state commission would collect data.

“The issue also includes cyber stalking ..we are collecting data”, she said.

The meeting reviewed the ongoing initiatives, discussions on proposed programmes and funding for the coming year, and collaborative activities to be undertaken with the support of the national commission.

Violence against women in the state, and  welfare programmes for the women also figured in the meeting.

Later, Rahatkar opened the SHUBHAM reusable sanitary pad making head unit  at Paltan Bazar, Shillong.

Rahatkar at the SHUBHAM reusable sanitary pad making head unit, Shillong

Meghalaya has become the first state in India where, under the Zero Waste Period Mission, 114 Cluster Level Federations (CLFs) have been provided free start-up kits, enabling women to embark on entrepreneurial journeys without any financial burden.

The pioneering initiative strengthens women’s economic empowerment, promotes sustainable menstrual hygiene, and advances the vision of “Every Village Self-Reliant, Every Woman an Entrepreneur.”, said a statement issued by SHUBHAM.