NTC accuses government of lacking transparency

Dimapur, April 19 (EMN): Nagaland Tribes Council (NTC) has accused the state government of lacking fair system, transparent management and humanity spirit in the fight against Covid-19 pandemic.

NTC bemoaned that Nagaland do not have a laboratory test facility to deal with the Covid-19 even after 57 years of statehood and has to depend on the mercies of neighbouring states.

On complains of sub-standard and poor safety gears as raised by the frontline workers, NTC questioned if those were donated by Healthy Ministry from the Government of India. If not, it asked who was the middle man responsible for such poor safety gears thereby putting the lives of people on the frontline especially the health workers, police personnel on duty and the Naga in general at risk. NTC has also questioned the slow progress in the construction or renovation of Covid-19 rooms and other isolation wards.

In the light of the above stated circumstances, NTC’s statement issued by its president Toniho Yepthomi and Nribemo Ngullie has demanded a WHO approved PPE kits for frontline health workers and security personnel as well as WHO standard isolation and treatment facilities for patients.

It has also demanded Covid-19 rapid testing kits in all the sensitive areas and to immediately set up BSL-3 lab in Dimapur. It also demanded community-based health policing and isolation as per procedure and equal distribution of food and other essential items for the poor in the rural areas.

It has asked to tie-up with other competent state government’s manufacturer firms and international bodies to act as fast tract for smooth supply of essential items and WHO approved medical materials.

Further, it has demanded transparency and accountability in the utilisation of workforce, fund and resources.

NTC meanwhile appealed to all not to stigmatise the frontline health workers and health service providers, be it government or private establishments.