SHILLONG: The women’s helpline number 181 in Meghalaya has emerged as a critical lifeline for women seeking protection from abuse and violence, with over 36,000 calls received since its launch in February 2022.
According to state Social Welfare Minister Paul Lyngdoh, following the calls, the police have registered 477 cases, out of which 158 cases are currently active, while 304 have been successfully closed.
Acknowledging the significance of the response, Minister Lyngdoh noted that the high call volume reflects a positive trend, especially in a state where societal issues are often kept behind closed doors.
“The fact that 36,000 calls were made since the service was activated shows that the response has been high,” he told the press.
In a move to enhance support services, the state government has decided to integrate the women’s helpline 181 and the child helpline 1098, ensuring round-the-clock service to attend to distress calls.
Social Welfare Director Camelia Doreen Lyngwa highlighted the involvement of self-help groups (SHGs) in assisting families and guiding them to one-stop centres that provide the necessary support system for women in distress.
Furthermore, Minister Lyngdoh highlighted the state government’s commitment to transgender rights, revealing the constitution of a working group for the formulation of a transgender policy in Meghalaya.
As per the 2011 census, there are 627 transgender persons in the state.
“The state/district transgender justice board has been constituted, and an officer has been designated to deal with complaints,” the minister stated.
Additionally, a standing committee in all districts has been initiated to promptly investigate reports of any abuse against a transgender person by the police.
In a progressive move, the Meghalaya cabinet had approved the amendment of the Meghalaya Registration of Birth and Death Rules, 1999, in 2018.
This facilitated the inclusion of a transgender or third-gender option against the sex column in birth or death certificates, affirming the state’s commitment to inclusivity.
