Shillong, June 18: The financial condition and future sustainability of the Khasi Hospital at Lum Sohpetbneng came under discussion during the Summer Session of the Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council (KHADC) on Thursday, with members expressing concern over the continued functioning of the institution amid financial challenges.
The issue was raised by MDC from Laban-Mawprem, Bah Ricky Shullai, who sought clarification from the Executive Committee (EC) regarding the financial assistance extended by the Council to the hospital and the amount sanctioned annually.
Speaking during the session, Shullai underscored the significance of Khasi Hospital as a longstanding healthcare institution closely associated with the Khasi community. He noted that the hospital has been serving people from different parts of the Khasi Hills for many years and stressed the need for sustained support to ensure its uninterrupted operation.
Responding on behalf of the Executive Committee, Chief Executive Member Bah Winstone Tony Lyngdoh informed the House that the KHADC has been sanctioning an annual grant of Rs 6 lakh to the Khasi Hospital.
However, he stated that the Council has been facing financial constraints, which have affected the timely release of the sanctioned grant.
Following the reply, Shullai urged the Executive Committee not to overlook the matter and to actively explore measures that would enable the hospital to continue delivering healthcare services without major disruptions.
He emphasized that institutions providing essential medical services, particularly in areas where healthcare facilities are limited, require consistent support from the authorities. He also cautioned that inadequate financial assistance could adversely impact not only the functioning of the hospital but also the numerous patients and families who rely on its services.
In response to supplementary questions, the Executive Committee assured the House that it fully recognizes the importance of Khasi Hospital and would carefully assess its present condition.
The EC further stated that efforts would be made to identify possible avenues of assistance despite the Council’s ongoing financial difficulties.
The discussion reflected a broader concern among members of the House regarding the preservation and strengthening of long-serving public healthcare institutions and the need to ensure uninterrupted medical services for the people of the Khasi Hills.
