‘How long must we wait?’: AKM rallies against doctor shortage at IMDH Mokokchung

Demands written assurances, cautions of stricter measures if govt fails to act

Morung Express News
Mokokchung | March 16 

‘How long must we wait?’ was the common sentiment echoed as the Ao Kaketshir Mungdang (AKM) staged a public rally on Saturday, demanding urgent government intervention in the persistent shortage of doctors and medical staff at Imkongliba Memorial District Hospital (IMDH), Mokokchung.

Addressing the gathering, AKM President Lanutoshi Aier said the rally was called as the Nagaland government had failed to act despite multiple representations and an ultimatum to the concerned department on the issue.

Over the years, IMDH has faced a persistent shortage of doctors and medical staff, yet the government has not responded adequately, he stated.

Meanwhile, he further informed that on March 14, the Deputy Commissioner of Mokokchung convened a meeting with AKM and departmental representatives to discuss the issue.

However, he clarified that no agreements were made at the meeting, despite some media reports claiming otherwise.

According to Aier, the discussions remained inconclusive as the departments were unwilling to provide written assurances.

A draft agreement was circulated by the department, but AKM representatives only signed the meeting’s attendance and not any agreement, he added.

At the meeting, departmental representatives reportedly stated that doctors would be appointed after the Nagaland Public Service Commission (NPSC) examinations.

However, Aier questioned, “These exams have not been held for the past 4–5 years. Are we supposed to wait for another 4–5 years?” further criticising the government for failing to make alternative arrangements despite being fully aware of the crisis.

Those in power must fulfil responsibilities
To this end, the AKM President reminded the gathering that leaders are elected to serve the people and should act accordingly, adding that the people of Mokokchung have endured the issue for too long.

While AKM does not have the authority to dictate government actions, those in power must fulfil their responsibilities, he stressed.

He also clarified that the people of Mokokchung are demanding a solution out of necessity, not greed.

Although Dimapur, Kohima, and Mokokchung district hospitals fall under the same category, AKM is only demanding essential staffing, not the same number of doctors, he added.

Aier stated that the rally was only Phase 1 of AKM’s movement and warned that stricter measures may follow if the government fails to act positively. He urged public solidarity in the struggle.

He acknowledged the inconvenience caused by the protest but urged public understanding, emphasising that AKM has no personal agenda and is acting solely for Mokokchung’s well-being.

Patient load at IMDH
Addressing the issue of patient load at IMDH, Aier highlighted that IMDH caters not only to Mokokchung but also to several other districts, serving patients from diverse socio-economic backgrounds who rely on it for medical care, not affordable elsewhere.

Also addressing the rally, Vice President Aowati Ozukum said Ao Senden has pursued the issue with the concerned department since its current tenure began in 2024, but even after a year, the government is yet to act despite assurances.

There is a shortage of eight doctors at the rural level, and despite prior commitments, the issue remains unresolved, he said.

He also expressed gratitude to AKM for spearheading the movement while underscoring the importance of essential public services such as good medical facilities, quality education, and robust transportation and communication systems.

Ozukum also flayed the government’s failure to provide these basic needs despite collecting taxes and enforcing laws on the people.

He also highlighted that patients from Wokha, Zunheboto, and almost 90% of the population from Eastern Nagaland seek medical care at IMDH—the sole government hospital in Mokokchung.

Thus, it is shameful that there are not enough doctors to attend to them, he added, while assuring Ao Senden’s full support and urging people to stand together for the cause.

Where are elected representatives?
Sharing similar sentiments, Watsü Mungdang President Arenla Longkumer lamented that elected representatives, tasked with voicing public concerns in the Assembly, have failed to ensure even basic necessities.

Lauding AKM, she affirmed Watsü Mungdang’s unwavering support and urged everyone to stay committed until a resolution is reached.

Earlier, the AKM President also urged Ao legislators and the government to take responsibility for resolving this long-standing crisis.

The rally concluded with a prayer pronounced by Rev Ponen Longchar, Pastor of Mokokchung Town Baptist Arogo (MTBA).

It may be noted that the AKM issued a seven-day ultimatum to the Health & Family Welfare Department on March 6, demanding urgent action on IMDH’s specialist shortage after the department allegedly failed to respond satisfactorily to its January 31 representation.

The AKM had specifically raised concerns over the acute shortage of medical specialists, particularly in the Obstetrics & Gynaecology and Anaesthesia departments.