Former Chief Minister and Leader of the Opposition, Dr Mukul Sangma, reiterated his opinion that Meghalaya is not yet ready for private investment in the health sector, particularly when the central government provides support through various schemes.
During his visit to the nearly completed 100-bed hospital in Chidaret in Garo Hills on June 2, Dr Sangma emphasised that healthcare and medical education are the state’s responsibility. He argued that central funding is available to help states like Meghalaya bridge gaps in healthcare infrastructure and the government must fully utilise this support rather than pursuing public-private partnerships (PPPs).
His statement comes in the wake of opposition from Dr Sangma’s Trinamool Congress (TMC) regarding the PPP model that the state government plans to employ in the running of the still under construction Tura Medical College. The TMC is adamant that the institution should be run solely by the state government and not involve a private player.
Dr Sangma highlighted the long-term vision behind the Chidaret hospital, which was initiated during his tenure as CM. The project aimed to develop the area as a medical hub for the region. As part of this vision, nearly 100 acres of land were acquired through a gift deed from local clans, with the possibility of setting up a medical college in the area.
He clarified that the Tura Medical College was always intended to be a fully government-run institution. Although central funding was not available when the plan was initiated, the scheme was introduced during his tenure, enabling the state to establish fully government-funded medical colleges.
“The Centre provides access to a central pool of resources to ensure states like Meghalaya can establish these institutions,” he said. “It’s the government’s responsibility to ensure accessible healthcare and medical education.”
Dr Sangma cited examples from states like Assam, Tripura, and West Bengal, highlighting how other governments have successfully established medical colleges without resorting to PPPs. He cautioned that the government must take responsibility and complete the Tura Medical College project under full public ownership before considering alternative models.
The state government has argued that a private player is required as there is a shortage of qualified professionals in Garo Hills who can be relied on to run the medical college.
“Challenges exist, but they are not insurmountable,” Dr Sangma said. “Once we succeed with one, we can aim for a second and third. The government cannot simply wash its hands of this responsibility.”
The Chidaret Civil Hospital, which is about 90 per cent complete and expected to be operational by July, has been constructed at an estimated cost of Rs 50 crore.
