Shillong, May 23: Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma on Saturday personally received Genal R. Marak, a Meghalaya youth rescued from alleged abusive working conditions in Jammu and Kashmir, at the Guwahati Airport, highlighting the role played by the 1971 CM Connect helpline in the rescue operation.
According to an official press release, Genal R. Marak, a resident of Lummuri, Ichamati village in East Khasi Hills district, had reportedly been working at a restaurant in Srinagar for the past three years under exploitative conditions after travelling there in search of employment at the age of 16. The release stated that Genal was allegedly denied wages and subjected to physical and mental abuse by the restaurant owner and his son during his stay in Kashmir.
The rescue operation began after a distress call was received on the 1971 CM Connect helpline on April 24, 2026. Officials said Genal had even expressed suicidal thoughts if help had not reached him in time. Following the alert, the CM Connect team coordinated with senior officials and law enforcement authorities from both Meghalaya and Jammu & Kashmir for immediate intervention.
Within hours, a joint team comprising the Assistant Labour Commissioner and the Anti-Human Trafficking Unit in Jammu and Kashmir traced Genal in Srinagar and rescued him from the premises. To ensure his safety and welfare, the Meghalaya Government deputed a magistrate to oversee the matter and facilitated the travel of Genal’s mother, Surobi R. Marak, and relatives along with Magistrate and Assistant Commissioner Sanjay D. Shira to reunite with him and bring him back safely.
The government also informed that Genal’s pending wages were released before his successful handover to the family. Speaking after receiving Genal at the airport, Chief Minister Conrad Sangma said the rescue demonstrated how accessible governance and timely intervention can save lives. He stated that the CM Connect platform continues to function not only as a grievance portal but also as a vital support system for the people of Meghalaya.
