Shillong: The Meghalaya government is exploring the possibility of introducing a specific law to address crimes arising from witchcraft (menshohnoh) accusations and related practices.
Adviser to the Social Welfare Department Paul Lyngdoh on Tuesday said the matter is under consideration and would require careful examination by the Law Department. “This is a sensitive issue,” Lyngdoh said. “While many of these practices have deep traditional roots, they often run contrary to the principles of justice and the rule of law. The Law Department will need to carefully study the matter before any legislative step is taken.”
He added that framing such a law would also require collaboration with the state’s Autonomous District Councils (ADCs), which have legislative powers within their jurisdictions.
“If the need for a law arises, we would look at a consultative process involving the ADCs and the state government,” he explained. “Each council has its own law department, and through coordination, we can either draft a state-level law or empower the councils to legislate on the matter, with the Governor’s assent.”
Lyngdoh noted that while incidents linked to witchcraft have decreased in recent years, isolated cases continue to surface. He cited a recent incident at Khliehshnong Sohra, where police intervened swiftly to stop a mob from lynching a family accused of practicing witchcraft. Nine people were arrested for their alleged involvement in the attack.
Following the incident, the Social Welfare Department stepped in to ensure the victims’ safety. “Our team immediately moved in to rescue the families and provide protection,” Lyngdoh said. “After assessing the situation and ensuring their safety, the families have now returned to their homes.”
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