The Meghalaya government has constituted a four-member enquiry committee to investigate the alleged refusal of admission to a child suspected of having rabies at Tura Civil Hospital in West Garo Hills.
Committee Formation
The Directorate of Health Services (Medical Institutions) issued the order following media reports about the incident that reportedly occurred on April 25. The committee is headed by Dr Sombari Boro, Joint Director of Health Services (Garo Hills division). Other members include Dr Perosh Marak, Joint Director of Health Services (MCH&FW); Dr Cruzie N Sangma, District Medical and Health Officer; and Dr Valerie Laloo, State Surveillance Officer under the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP).
Scope of Inquiry
The committee is tasked with inquiring into the circumstances surrounding the alleged denial of admission. It will also examine any lapses, negligence, or dereliction of duty on the part of the medical staff. The committee has been directed to submit its report within seven days.
The incident has raised serious concerns about healthcare access in the region, particularly for emergency cases involving infectious diseases like rabies. The state government has emphasized the need for accountability and prompt action to prevent such incidents in the future.
