SHILLONG, FEB 25: Voice of the People Party (VPP) president Ardent Miller Basaiawmoit on Wednesday described healthcare in Meghalaya as “very grim,” stating that the death of Shillong MP Dr. Ricky AJ Syngkon has exposed deeper systemic failures.
Speaking to reporters, Basaiawmoit said the incident at Mawiong Community Health Centre highlights serious shortcomings in the state’s health infrastructure and manpower.
“I think you have seen the report of the inquiry conducted by the government and you have seen what the local MLA said about the condition of that particular CHC. That itself speaks volumes of the fact that healthcare in Meghalaya is very grim,” he said.
Focus on System, Not Individuals
When asked about the alleged absence of the doctor in-charge at the health centre, Basaiawmoit declined to comment on individuals, stressing that the issue is systemic.
“I am not aware and we don’t want to talk about any specific individual. But we have to speak about how government manages these health centres and how the government provides manpower,” he stated.
Calls for Better Staffing & Infrastructure
He emphasised that without adequate staffing and improved infrastructure, healthcare facilities will continue to struggle.
“Unless the government provides the required strength of staff and infrastructure needed for the health centres and CHCs, I don’t see how we can move forward by diverting to other topics,” Basaiawmoit added.
The remarks come amid growing public concern over healthcare services in rural and semi-urban areas across the state.