Meghalaya: Thousands Mourn as They Bid Goodbye to Four-Year-Old in Shillong

A large gathering of citizens assembled to pay their final respects to four-year-old Insaphira Lyngdoh Mawnai, who was laid to rest at the Presbyterian Church cemetery in Nongrah Nonglumbrei, Shillong, Meghalaya.

The mourners, including youth organisation leaders, political figures, and community members, offered heartfelt condolences to the grieving family. Tears flowed freely as many struggled with the sorrow of the child’s untimely passing.
Insaphira was reported missing from her home on Sunday and was tragically found deceased the following morning.

The incident has deeply unsettled the local community, particularly women and parents, who expressed heightened fears for their safety and security.

Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma addressed the incident, stating that the Meghalaya Police are making significant progress in their investigation.

He noted that Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong, overseeing the Home Department, is confident that the case will soon be resolved due to the police’s dedicated efforts.

Paul Lyngdoh, the outgoing Social Welfare Minister, called for societal collaboration to combat such atrocities, warning of “monsters among us.” The Meghalaya State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (MSCPCR) echoed this urgency, pressing law enforcement to expedite the investigation into the brutal murder.

MSCPCR Chairperson Agatha K Sangma emphasised the need for a swift and thorough probe to deliver justice and provide closure to the bereaved family. Commission members supported the family throughout the ordeal, ensuring all necessary procedures, including the autopsy at NEIGRIHMS, were completed.

Sangma expressed profound grief over the loss of a child’s innocent life and extended the Commission’s deepest sympathies. She also issued a stern warning against sharing distressing images or videos of children on social media, highlighting that such actions violate the Juvenile Justice Act and carry severe legal consequences.

The crime has sparked widespread outrage across Shillong. Various organisations, including the Synjuk ki Seng Samla Shnong Shillong City, condemned the act and plan to meet with authorities to advocate for stricter laws. Pynsuk Youroi, assistant general secretary of Synjuk Ki Nongniah Taxi Sor bad Khapsor, demanded the death penalty for those responsible.

The Synjuk Ki Nongsynshar Shnong Nongthymmai Pyllun (SKNSNP) held a rally to denounce the killing, with president Bantylli Nari labelling the perpetrators as “bloodthirsty” and calling for uncompromising legal action.