SHILLONG, Oct 14: The Mawkynrew Primary Health Centre (PHC), which has remained closed for over two weeks, will continue to be under lock and key for another week after a meeting between health officials, villagers, and traditional head of the village failed to resolve the impasse.
Officials deputed by the District Medical and Health Officer (DMHO) of East Khasi Hills met representatives of the Mawkynrew Dorbar Shnong and the FKJGP Mawkynrew Circle, but the talks ended without an agreement.
The Dorbar Shnong and the FKJGP had shut down the PHC on September 29, alleging that the Health Department and local MLA Banteidor Lyngdoh failed to act on their grievances raised four months ago regarding poor healthcare services at the facility.
In a letter to the Health department on September 30, the groups demanded the appointment of at least two doctors at the PHC to ensure proper medical services for the area. Following Tuesday’s meeting, villagers reiterated their stand, giving the Health Department a one-week deadline to fulfill their demand.
“We have made it clear that two doctors are essential for the PHC to function effectively. It is too burdensome for a single doctor to handle all cases,” one of the villagers said, adding that the people’s patience is running out.
He appealed to the government to immediately post two doctors at the centre to meet the healthcare needs and expectations of the community.
A member of the Seng Longkmie of the village expressed deep concern over the government’s inaction, noting that the shortage of medical staff has put patients—especially pregnant women—at risk.
“We have faced many difficult situations when no doctor was available, especially at night. Labour pain can occur anytime, and without a doctor, the staff can only refer patients to Shillong, which is far away,” she said.
She urged the government and the local MLA to address the issue of manpower shortage at the earliest.
Meanwhile, another village representative said the officials deputed by the DMHO informed them that only one doctor could be appointed temporarily for now.
However, villagers rejected the proposal, insisting that two full-time doctors be permanently posted and made to reside at the PHC to ensure round-the-clock healthcare.
“The officials said one doctor will be posted on a temporary basis, but we are not satisfied. We want full-fledged doctors who will stay and serve the people 24/7,” the villager asserted.
