Call for safe spaces, better care: Women and youth push for urgent reforms in West Jaintia Hills

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaMay 22, 2025

A strong call for safe spaces, better healthcare, and fair opportunities echoed through West Jaintia Hills on Wednesday as women and youth leaders handed over memorandums to Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma during his district visit. The submissions, made by the National People’s Women’s Front (NPWF) and National People’s Youth Front (NPYF), urged the government to act swiftly on worsening drug addiction, overburdened hospitals, unsafe school hostels, and stalled recruitment processes—issues that continue to affect the district’s most vulnerable.

The National People’s Women’s Front (NPWF), led by President Queenlands Nongrum, presented a memorandum focusing on three key issues:

1. Rehabilitation, Detoxification & Counselling Centre:
   The NPWF highlighted rampant drug abuse in the community and expressed the need to establish a dedicated Drug Abuse Treatment & Rehabilitation Centre at Jowai. The centre would work in coordination with the Health Department, Social Welfare Department, and the community to provide intervention, patient assistance, family counselling, and implement a Community Based Drugs Rehabilitation Programme.
2. MCH Hospital Staffing:
   The memorandum expressed concern over staff shortages at the MCH Hospital in Jowai, which makes it difficult for staff to perform their duties effectively. The NPWF urged the government to increase the number of doctors and nurses to ensure smoother hospital operations and better patient care.
3. Government Girls’ Hostel:
   The group brought attention to the dilapidated condition of the Government Girls’ Higher Secondary School hostel in Jowai due to years of neglect. They requested a government assessment of the current state, identification of challenges, and recommendations for solutions such as upgrading facilities, increasing seats, or building additional hostels.

The National People’s Youth Front (NPYF), represented by President Ebormi Lyngdoh and General Secretary William E. Pasweth, submitted a memorandum addressing youth concerns:

1. Delay in MPSC/DSC Examinations:
   The NPYF highlighted delays in conducting the Meghalaya Public Service Commission and District Selection Committee exams, which negatively impact applicants by affecting employment chances and causing stress. They appealed for faster job advertisements and timely examinations.
2. One Stop Examination Centre:
   They requested the creation of a dedicated One Stop Examination Centre to conduct various competitive exams, including CUET, NEET, UPSC, MPSC, and DSC, so that youth would not have to travel outside the district or state.
3. Sports Academy and Upgradation of Kiang Nangbah Stadium:
   Congratulating the government on hosting the 6th Meghalaya Games and being selected as host for the 39th National Games in 2027, the NPYF urged for a multi-disciplinary Sports Academy and upgrading the Kiang Nangbah Stadium with relevant facilities.
4. Drop-in Centre for Youth:
   The NPYF called for setting up a Drop-in Centre for vulnerable youth aged 14 to 24 who lack secure homes and need support. The centre would provide space for socializing, skill-building, and access to mental health counselling or treatment.

Both organizations urged the Chief Minister for timely intervention to resolve these critical issues and improve conditions for women, girls, and youth across West Jaintia Hills.