Ngos: HM resign

By Our Reporter

SHILLONG, JAN 3: A public rally to protest against the recent trafficking and sexual assault of a minor girl will be held on January 11 to pressurize the Congress led state government to take action against a minister and a legislator for their alleged role in the case. The decision was taken at a meeting convened by the Thma U Rangli Juki (TUR) and Civil Society Women Organization (CSWO) on Tuesday.

The meeting discussed the recent case of trafficking and aggravated sexual assault of a minor by public servants which also involved a guest house run by the immediate family of the home minister.

“We demand the home minister HDR Lyngdoh should immediately resign to ensure an independent enquiry into this case,” NGO leaders Angela Rangad and Agnes Kharshiing said after the meeting.

They felt chief minister Mukul Sangma ought to take full responsibility and ensure action against the two MLAs who are members of the MUA.

“Besides, a red corner notice for Julius Dorphang should be immediately issued to all states in the country including all exit and entry points of the state,” they said while adding “It is deplorable that an MLA is found to be absconding and on this the speaker should take note and take action.”

On the other hand, they also stated that the POCSO Act 2012 along with the Criminal Law Amendment Act 2013 should be invoked to ensure that investigations are carried out in a time bound manner as prescribed by law and that anyone interfering with the course of investigation and justice should be made liable be it police or others.

Demanding stern action against erring guest houses and hotels, they said, “All guest houses and hotels, be it private or government owned, named by the victim as places where she was taken to should be immediately shut down pending inquiry and licenses revoked and owners booked and blacklisted when implicated. NOCs issued by any authority should be revoked.”

The meeting also resolved to demand immediate setting up of a hotline number with the State Commission for Protection of Child rights where complaints on trafficking and sexual exploitation of minors can be lodged.

“Mandatory guidelines regarding safety and security protocol to be followed by all hotels, Guesthouses / Bed and Breakfast and home stays should be immediately notified,” they said.

They further stated that the tourism and skill development policies of the state that encourages and drives persons towards engaging in activities aimed at sexual exploitation and abuse should be reviewed.