Dimapur, March 24, 2025 – The Nagaland Pradesh Congress Committee (NPCC) has strongly criticized the state government for its alleged neglect of the healthcare sector, citing a severe lack of medical equipment, services, and staff. Addressing a press conference at Congress Bhavan, Dimapur, Er. Meshenlo Kath, Chairperson of the Public Grievances Department, highlighted the dire state of medical infrastructure in Nagaland and warned of public protests if the government fails to take immediate action.

Critical Shortage of Medical Equipment and Services

The Congress functionary revealed that key hospitals in Nagaland, including Naga Hospital Kohima, lack basic medical equipment such as CT scans and ultrasound machines, leaving patients without access to essential diagnostic services. The situation is reportedly worse in districts like Zunheboto, where crucial medical facilities are also unavailable.

"People travel from different districts hoping for treatment, only to be denied even the most basic healthcare services," said Kath. He further lamented that despite Nagaland achieving statehood before most other northeastern states, it still lags significantly in healthcare development.

Kath also disclosed shocking statistics, stating that 57 Primary Health Centres (PHCs) in Nagaland do not have a single doctor, calling it a “pathetic condition” that reflects the government’s failure to prioritize healthcare.

Severe Shortage of Medical Staff and Unfilled Vacancies

Apart from infrastructure issues, the NPCC pointed out the alarming shortage of medical personnel in the state. According to Kath, the government has failed to recruit adequate staff, despite 288 vacant positions in the health sector. He criticized the government’s repeated excuses for not filling these vacancies and accused it of ignoring the pressing needs of the people.

Furthermore, the Congress leader highlighted the absence of facilities for even minor heart surgeries in Nagaland, questioning how the government expects people to trust a system that cannot provide basic medical care.

Congress Warns of Street Protests

The NPCC has urged the government to immediately convene a cabinet meeting to address these issues. They stressed that providing basic healthcare services and infrastructure is a fundamental duty of the government.

Warning of potential public demonstrations, Kath stated, “If our appeals continue to be ignored, Congress will be compelled to take to the streets.” He also assured that more evidence exposing the state's healthcare crisis will be presented in the coming days.

The NPCC’s strong stance highlights growing frustration among citizens over Nagaland’s healthcare shortcomings. Whether the government will respond with decisive action remains to be seen.