Khliehriat, Jun 12: A surprising allegation has been made by members and leaders of the Jaintia Coal Owners, Miners and Suppliers Workers Association (JCMSWA), namely that the authorities of East Jaintia Hills sent a veterinarian to assess the health of Marshall Biam, who is on hunger strike at Ladrymbai Dongwah to pressure the government to loosen restrictions on coal mining.
Speaking to reporters, Biam said that the vet came on Thursday and Friday to inquire about his health as he has been on hunger strike since June 1.
“I do not understand what the district authorities and the office of the District Medical and Health Officer (DMHO) are trying to do. I cannot understand their intention,” Biam said.
A woman who came to encourage and support him, expressed concern over the visit of veterinary doctors. “We strongly condemn the sending of veterinary doctors. They should understand that if it is a human being, a medical doctor should come; if it is an animal, then a veterinary doctor should come. He is a human being.” The act of the government is a sign of disrespect towards Biam, she opined.
“Many people who have gone on hunger strikes were attended by qualified medical doctors, but in his case they have sent animal doctors,” she said.
The doctor was not permitted by the JCMSWA members to conduct a medical examination.
