By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, April 8: The Meghalaya EMRI Workers Union has submitted a memorandum to Health Minister Wailadmiki Shylla opposing the reported move to re-tender the 108 Emergency Response Service, demanding instead that the state government retain management and regularise the workforce.
The union argued that the ambulance network, which has been operational since 2008, is a critical public utility that should remain under government oversight. Citing past experience under private firm GVK, the union claimed previous management led to operational failures, including delayed repairs, manpower shortages and inconsistent medical supplies.
According to the workers, these issues previously triggered public and staff protests when emergency responses were compromised.
In contrast, they maintained that the service has stabilised since being brought under the National Health Mission (NHM), resulting in smoother operations and fewer disruptions.
The union also raised concerns over reports that recruitment may be subcontracted to a private firm, Shishupal Agency. They argued that outsourcing recruitment could lead to unfair hiring practices and a lack of transparency. Instead, they proposed that the government or the NHM conduct recruitment through open advertisements to ensure equal opportunity.
Reiterating their demand for job security, the union stated that regularising employees would improve the efficiency of the emergency system. They urged the state to reconsider privatisation and focus on strengthening the existing framework in the interest of public health.
