Shillong: Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Sangma on Saturday received a Meghalaya youth, Genal R Marak, who was rescued from Jammu and Kashmir, at the Guwahati airport. Genal was allegedly subjected to exploitation for three years in Jammu and Kashmir.
CM's Emotional Response
“Deeply relieved and grateful to welcome Genal R. Marak who was safely rescued after a difficult and traumatic experience in Jammu & Kashmir. Meeting him at Guwahati Airport today was an emotional moment and a reminder that the safety and well-being of every citizen of Meghalaya will always remain our top priority,” the CM wrote on ‘X’.
“Through the swift action of the team following a distress call made to the 1971 CM Helpline (CM CONNECT), Genal is now safely returning home to reunite with his family,” he added.
Background of the Incident
Genal is from the East Khasi Hills district. According to the Meghalaya government, Genal left home at the age of 16 in search of employment and later travelled to Kashmir with the help of an acquaintance. He subsequently found work at a restaurant in Srinagar, but was allegedly denied wages and subjected to physical and mental abuse by the restaurant owner and his son.
Rescue Operation
A joint team of the assistant labour commissioner and the Anti-Human Trafficking Unit in Jammu and Kashmir rescued Genal from Srinagar. The operation was initiated after a distress call was made to the 1971 CM Helpline (CM CONNECT), which led to swift action by the authorities.
The rescue highlights the government's commitment to ensuring the safety of its citizens, especially those who fall victim to exploitation in other parts of the country. Genal's family expressed gratitude to the chief minister and the rescue team for bringing him back safely.
