Shillong, May 24: A 19-year-old youth from Meghalaya who had remained separated from his family for nearly three years while working in Jammu and Kashmir returned home after being rescued following a distress call to the state’s CM Connect helpline.
Conrad K Sangma received Genal R Marak at Guwahati airport on Saturday after authorities traced and rescued him from Srinagar through coordination between Meghalaya and Jammu and Kashmir officials.
Genal, a resident of Lummuri in East Khasi Hills district, had reportedly travelled to Shillong at the age of 16 in search of work before being taken to Kashmir by an acquaintance who had promised employment opportunities. He later began working at a restaurant in Srinagar.
According to the state government, Genal was allegedly made to work under exploitative conditions over the past three years and was denied wages. He was also allegedly subjected to physical and mental abuse by the restaurant owner and his son.
The matter surfaced on April 24, 2026, after a distress call was received through the 1971 CM Connect helpline. Officials said Genal had expressed thoughts of ending his life if assistance did not reach him in time.
Following the complaint, Meghalaya authorities coordinated with officials and law enforcement agencies in Jammu and Kashmir. A joint team involving the Assistant Labour Commissioner and the Anti-Human Trafficking Unit subsequently traced and rescued him from Srinagar, officials said.
A magistrate from Meghalaya was deputed to supervise the process, while Genal’s mother and relatives travelled to Kashmir to bring him home. Authorities also facilitated the release of his pending wages before his return.
Speaking after his arrival, Sangma said the incident demonstrated the impact of responsive systems and technology in helping citizens in distress.
Officials said the case underscored the importance of inter-state coordination and timely intervention in protecting vulnerable individuals working outside their home state.
