Meghalaya State Women Commission to Judge Authenticity of Charges

#METOO IN SHILLONG

STAFF CORRESPONDENT

SHILLONG: The Meghalaya State Women Commission (MSWC) will seek the report of the internal inquiry carried years ago on the issue related to the alleged sexual abused by the two Catholic priests in Shillong. Two days after a Shillong-based woman shared in the social media about the names of two priests — namely Brother Francis Gale and Brother C Muskat, talks that are doing the rounds is on the authenticity of the allegations.

The Sentinel solicited the views of the MSWC on Monday. They denied that such incidents have come up of late besides adding that suo moto action will have to be taken to authenticate the truth. “This case as reported in a section of the press needs to be pursued especially when the alleged victim has gone all out in social media.”

However, no complaint has been lodged with the MSWC, confirmed the Chairperson Theilin Phanbuh. Appreciating the #MeToo campaign with restraint, Phanbubuh stated, “while we appreciated every one of them who have suffered the trauma certain space should be given to the accused.” She went on to say that the #MeToo campaign is a healthy sign to take on sexual harassment.

Another member of the MSWC, Rubina Subbah said that the #MeToo campaign has ignited people to come out through the social media about the sexual assaults. Subbah said, “It was a shocker to hear accusations through the media that the priests are involved.” Subbah further said that if the victim complaints, there are reasons to carry out the legal process.