By Our Reporter
SHILLONG: The Meghalaya Medical Services Association (MMSA) has expressed serious concern over the security of the doctors posted in Garo Hills, especially with the police failing to solve several cases where doctors were being attacked by militant outfits.
In a letter submitted to Director General of Police (DGP), MMSA general secretary Dr Aman War pointed out several cases of assault on doctors and the lack of security cover which posed a grave threat to the medics serving in Garo Hills.
The MMSA even threatened a peaceful agitation if the safety of its members is not looked into by the Government.
“There have been seven assault cases against doctors including two cases where demands notes have been served against them. Besides the son of a doctor was also kidnapped,” Dr War informed.
“There are many cases where the doctors are afraid to report to police on threats received by them from the underground outfits for the fear of further retaliation,” the MMSA general secretary said while adding that all the aforesaid incidents have been reported to
police seeking immediate protection.
“In isolated cases, although temporary namesake police protection was given, the security was withdrawn unceremoniously even as the threat perception persisted,” the MMSA general secretary said.
Dr War also pointed out that the doctors serving in various stations, especially in East Garo Hills and adjoining districts are being targeted by the extremist groups on regular basis which has forced many to leave their place of posting.
While referring to the recent cases where the doctors received demand notes from the GNLA, sources said that Dagal PHC M&HO Dr Bandi K Sangma and East Garo Hills DMHO Dr Linham Ch Sangma received demand notes of Rs 20 lakh and Rs 30 lakh from the GNLA on May last.