SHILLONG, Feb 24: Health Minister Wailadmiki Shylla on Tuesday shared the findings of an official inquiry into the demise of Shillong MP Ricky AJ Syngkon, stating that medical staff at Mawiong Community Health Centre responded promptly and acted within their capacity.
According to the minister, the inquiry conducted by the District Medical and Health Officer (DMHO), East Khasi Hills, confirmed that emergency assessment and basic life support were initiated immediately when Syngkon was brought to the CHC on February 19, 2026, after collapsing while playing football.
“The staff present acted within the scope and capacity of a Community Health Centre, including immediate examination, oxygen administration, CPR and timely referral to a higher facility,” Shylla said, adding that no refusal of care or delay in referral was found.
Syngkon was later referred to Dr. H. Gordon Roberts Hospital, where he was declared with unrecordable vitals and dilated pupils. The Health Department expressed condolences to the bereaved family and noted the critical nature of sudden cardiac arrest cases.
Doctor shortage cited
Addressing allegations regarding the absence of a doctor at Mawiong CHC at the time of the emergency, Shylla cited a severe shortage of doctors in the state.
Out of four doctors posted at the CHC, two were on postgraduate leave while one had been transferred to Khliehriat Community Health Centre due to medical reasons, leaving only one doctor in charge.
The minister clarified that the doctor was available on call and guided the nurse remotely while emergency care was administered.
“He attended OPD cases from 9 am to 4 pm, and the nurse was in constant contact with him while providing emergency treatment,” he said.
Recruitment to address shortage
Acknowledging the unfortunate circumstances, Shylla said the government has received sanction to recruit 150 contractual doctors to strengthen healthcare services across the state.
Recruitment is expected to begin soon.