Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma firmly denied claims about the privatization of Tura Medical College. Speaking at a press briefing in Shillong, he confirmed that the college will remain under government ownership and management.
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CM Sangma Dismisses Tura Medical College Privatization Rumors
Addressing the issue directly, CM Sangma emphasized that the Tura Medical College privatization rumor is completely unfounded. He explained that the government is developing the institution using public funds and will continue managing it through the state’s health department.
“There is no plan to hand over Tura Medical College to any private entity,” he said. “The college is being built with full government support and will operate just like any other public medical institution.”
Moreover, he pointed out that the college is part of a centrally sponsored scheme. Both the central and state governments are jointly funding the project, ensuring full public ownership.
Public Concern Prompted Clarification
Initially, the rumors spread through social media, sparking anxiety among students and parents. Many feared that Tura Medical College privatization would make medical education unaffordable and inaccessible for locals. Several student organizations in the Garo Hills even demanded an official response.
To ease those concerns, Sangma explained that no private organization had any role in the college’s administration. In fact, he encouraged the public to rely on official government statements instead of unverified online posts.
Importantly, he noted that the government has maintained complete transparency in every phase of the project. From budget allocation to staff recruitment, all decisions follow official procedures.
Government’s Vision for Expanding Medical Education
In addition, the Chief Minister highlighted the broader goal behind establishing Tura Medical College. The state is working to improve healthcare access in remote regions like Garo Hills. Once operational, the college will become Meghalaya’s second public medical college after NEIGRIHMS in Shillong.
Sangma stressed that strengthening public healthcare is a top priority. By training doctors locally, the state can bridge its doctor-patient ratio and improve services in underserved areas.
The recruitment process for faculty and administrative staff has already begun. All hires are being made through proper government channels. As a result, the institution will remain under full government control from day one.
Transitioning to a Better-Informed Public
Furthermore, Sangma criticized the spread of misinformation. He described the Tura Medical College privatization rumor as politically motivated. According to him, certain groups are trying to create confusion for personal gain.
“These kinds of false narratives distract from real progress,” he said. “People should focus on facts and support positive development.”
He urged citizens to check facts before reacting to online claims. Additionally, he encouraged the media to verify information before publication to prevent panic and misunderstanding.
Tura Medical College to Transform Healthcare in the Region
Looking ahead, the Chief Minister expressed optimism about the future impact of the college. Not only will it provide medical education, but it will also deliver advanced healthcare services through its teaching hospital.
Once completed, the facility will serve Tura and neighboring districts with improved diagnostic and emergency care. This will reduce the burden on Shillong’s hospitals and improve outcomes in western Meghalaya.
Equally important, the government aims to keep medical education affordable. Local students from rural and low-income backgrounds will have greater access to MBBS seats, following reservation policies.
Public Healthcare Remains a Priority
To wrap up, CM Sangma reaffirmed the government’s long-term commitment to public health and education. The Tura Medical College privatization rumor, he said, must not derail the progress already made.
