Shillong: North Shillong MLA Adelbert Nongrum on Friday questioned Urban Affairs Minister Sniawbhalang Dhar about the increasing incidents of sex trafficking occurring in the heart of Shillong, particularly at Khyndailad, which falls within his constituency.
Nongrum raised this issue during a supplementary question in the Autumn Session’s question hour. He initially brought up a different concern about the railings installed at Khyndailad (Police Bazar), questioning if their purpose was merely to dry clothes. Minister Dhar responded that the railings were installed for safety purposes, not for drying clothes.
Nongrum noted that on October 16, 2023, clothes were seen hanging on the railings, which he described as an eyesore and an embarrassment, especially since Khyndailad is a popular tourist spot. This remark led to some light-hearted banter in the assembly, with Dhar assuring that the matter would be taken seriously and that officers would be sent the next day to prevent anyone from using the railings to dry clothes.
However, the tone shifted when Nongrum linked his question to a more serious issue—the presence of commercial sex workers at Khyndailad.
“In this regard, while putting this question, I wanted to ask another important question. Since Khyndailad is a significant location for tourists, can similar actions be taken on the bigger issue of trafficking that takes place at Khyndailad in the evenings and late at night, especially on weekends?” asked Nongrum.
Dear Reader,
Every day, our team at EastMojo travels through rain, rough roads, and remote hills to bring you stories that matter – stories from your town, your people, your Northeast.
We do this because we believe in truthful, independent journalism. No big corporate backing, no government pressure – just honest reporting by local journalists who live and breathe the same air you do.
But to keep doing this work, we need you. Your small contribution helps us pay our reporters fairly, reach places others ignore, and keep asking the tough questions.
If you believe the Northeast deserves its own fearless voice, stand with us.
Support independent journalism. Be a Member.
Thank you,
Karma Paljor
Editor-in-Chief, eastmojo.com
Minister Dhar did not provide a detailed response to this question, stating that the matter was different from the original question raised but assured Nongrum that he would examine the issue, acknowledging its importance.
Also Read | Dr. Mukul Sangma appointed leader of opposition in Meghalaya assembly