Shillong, Feb 4, 2026:
As part of the 100 Days District-wise Action Plan for Prevention of Child Marriages in Meghalaya under the NALSA (ASHA – Awareness, Support, Help and Action SOP) Scheme, 2025, and the Bal Vivah Mukt Bharat Campaign, the District Legal Services Authority (DLSA), East Khasi Hills, on Tuesday organised a Legal Awareness Programme-cum-Mock Rescue and Public Demonstration at Police Bazar, Shillong.
The programme aimed to sensitise the public on child protection laws, prevent child marriage, and create awareness about support mechanisms available for children in vulnerable situations.
Speaking at the event, Andrew A. Nongrum, Counsellor, District Child Protection Unit (DCPU), East Khasi Hills, said the department works for the welfare and protection of all children below 18 years of age, particularly those requiring immediate care and support.
Emphasising the importance of the Child Helpline number 1098, Nongrum said the service provides round-the-clock emergency assistance for children in distress.
“If the public comes across children who are missing, abandoned, homeless, running away, or facing abuse and do not know where to go, they can immediately call 1098,” he said, adding that any concerned citizen can report such cases.
Expressing concern over child labour, Nongrum said children continue to be engaged in unsafe and inappropriate forms of work. He noted that in previous years, cases of children being employed as domestic workers were widespread, but coordinated efforts by multiple departments have helped reduce the practice.
He urged the public to immediately report cases where children are found working in hazardous conditions, stressing that early reporting can prevent long-term harm.
Nongrum further informed that the DCPU provides assistance to children who have dropped out of school, orphans in need of shelter and care, and families requiring foster care and adoption support. He said citizens seeking information or assistance may contact the Child Helpline 1098 or visit the DCPU office in East Khasi Hills district.
Highlighting challenges in reporting, Nongrum said many cases of child abuse, particularly in rural areas, remain unreported due to fear, lack of awareness, or social stigma.
“When cases are reported, we counsel families and assist in registering FIRs. Only then can the legal protection and support process begin,” he said.
He added that counsellors and support persons serve as a bridge between victims and the legal system, ensuring access to medical care, counselling, legal assistance, court support, and rehabilitation services.
“We want to reach every family and every victim, especially in remote villages where many cases in the past went unreported,” Nongrum said.
