”APAL Meghalaya State Committee Visit to Governor’s House”

 To advocate for increased pensions and improved welfare for persons affected by leprosy through direct engagement with state authorities.

APAL’s State Committee Visit to the Governor’s House – 15/05/2025

On the 15th of May 2025, members of the Association of Persons Affected by Leprosy (APAL) State Committee, Meghalaya, visited the Governor’s House in Shillong with the intention of meeting the Honourable Governor of Meghalaya, Shri C. H. Vijayashankar. The purpose of the visit was to personally share the challenges and hardships faced by persons affected by leprosy in the state, and to request for support and intervention in improving their living conditions—particularly in the matter of increasing the monthly pension.

Although we were unable to meet the Governor due to not having a prior appointment, we were respectfully welcomed and directed to the office of the Joint Secretary within the same premises. The Joint Secretary received us warmly and gave us the opportunity to introduce our association (APAL) and explain our mission. We spoke about the discrimination, social exclusion, and economic struggles that members of our community continue to endure.

After listening to our concerns, the Joint Secretary advised us to submit a detailed written representation of our problems and needs. He assured us that our request would be forwarded to the appropriate authorities for necessary consideration and action. We were encouraged by his understanding and willingness to support our cause. The meeting concluded on a hopeful note, with a promise of follow-up and assistance to help improve the welfare and dignity of leprosy-affected persons in Meghalaya.