Mothers' Union up in arms against rape, molestation

A Correspondent

Shillong, April 25: Mothers’ Union of Tura, the frontline women organisation in Garo Hills, submitted a memorandum to the Chief Minister, Conrad K Sangma over the rise in crime against women and children in Meghalaya.

The mothers’ body together with citizens of Garo Hills on Wednesday gathered at the Chandmary playground to express their anxiety and anger on the rampant sexual assaults, rapes, molestations being committed against women and minors in Garo Hills.

“In just two weeks six to seven cases have been reported and registered. This alarming rise in the crime rate against women and children of tender ages seeks utmost attention from the concerned authorities,” the Mothers’ Union stated in its memorandum.

The union has urged the Government to deal with gender-based violence and such social ills with an iron hand.

The organisation has demanded that the existing legislations are being implemented by the law-enforcing agencies professionally and efficiently and in accordance with the rule of law so that no offender gets away due to any legal irregularity.

Among other things, the Mothers’ Union has asked for the setting up of special court and special Judge for POCSO and cases of violence against women. The union has also asked for rehabilitation programmes for the victims.