Shillong: Meghalaya EMRI workers launched an indefinite protest on Tuesday. They hung black flags on all 108 ambulances operating across the state. The move signals the first phase of an agitation over long-standing demands for job regularisation and better equipment. Workers want the government to stop outsourcing services to private companies.
Union president Roypar Kharraswai noted that the staff seeks a direct audience with Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma and Additional Chief Secretary Sampath Kumar. The union bypassed the Health Minister, believing leadership lacks the power to settle their dispute. “We have decided to first place our concerns before the Chief Minister and the Additional Chief Secretary, as the Health Minister may not be in a position to take decisions on our demands,” Kharraswai said.
The 108 service has run in the state for 18 years. Yet, the fleet size has not grown to match the rising population. Union members report they sent multiple notices to the government throughout June. Officials did not respond to those requests for dialogue. Now, the union warns that future protests will turn more aggressive if these leaders ignore their grievances.
Staff members are pushing for more ambulances, extra recruits, and modern medical gear. They worry that current neglect hurts rural families who cannot afford private care. The union insists the state must prioritize the public system to ensure lives are saved during emergencies.
Comments