Shillong, May 14: Health Minister AL Hek has asked doctors posted in public health centre (PHC) to perform their duty.

The warning came after a delegation of Synjuk Ki Sordar Dorbar Hynriew Shnong led by KHADC deputy chief executive member, Pyniaid Sing Syiem sought his intervention over non-availability of doctors at the Mawryngkneng PHC here on Tuesday.

In a memorandum submitted to the minister, the Synjuk pointed out that as per the record of traffic cell SP’s office, Shillong, a total of 145 accident cases had taken place along the national highway under the jurisdiction of Mawryngkneng during 2017-18.

According to the Sordar of Mawryngkneng, Peter J. Lawai, injured persons brought to the PHC, which was supposed to be a 24X7 health centre, had to suffer a lot due to non-availability of doctors at night and morning time.

Lawai also said that there are two female doctors in the PHC but the problem is that they do not station in the village despite the availability of quarters. In view of this, the delegation had demanded from the government to post one male doctor in the PHC.

Later while speaking to reporters, the Health minister said that he was aware that two doctors (MBBS) do not station at PHC as both are from Shillong.

“We have earlier sought explanation (on the matter) from the in-charge Dr A Kharduid… it is high time to take action as this (negligence of duty) is not acceptable,” he said.

Hek said that one cannot compromise with the duty, adding that the government has ordered that the PHC should work 24 X 7. “We cannot play with the lives of patients,” he said.

Meanwhile, the minister informed the delegation that the government is in the process of upgrading the PHC into a CHC.