Imphal, April 21: Healthcare services in Manipur have been significantly disrupted amid ongoing unrest, with the Association of Healthcare Providers India, Manipur Chapter, raising concerns over the use of force near medical facilities and the obstruction of critical services.
Speaking to the media at Mother’s Care and Children Hospital, AHPI Manipur Chapter president Dr Kh Ratankumar said tear gas shells landed at the hospital gate during protests on the night of April 18, causing distress among patients and staff. He noted that several patients endured a traumatic situation, with some forced to shift wards after the gas spread into the premises.
Highlighting the vulnerability of those admitted, including the elderly and critically ill, Dr Ratankumar stressed that hospitals must be kept insulated from conflict zones. He said security forces should ensure proper cordoning of such areas during protests to prevent any harm or disruption.
The association has written to the state’s Home Commissioner, seeking immediate intervention to prevent similar incidents. It asserted that safeguarding hospitals is a fundamental responsibility of the authorities and questioned the use of tear gas in close proximity to healthcare facilities.
AHPI also flagged serious concerns over reported attacks on ambulances, obstruction of emergency transport and harassment of healthcare workers. Medical personnel have allegedly faced verbal abuse, intimidation and even physical assault while on duty or in transit.
Describing the situation as a violation of humanitarian principles, the association emphasised that hospitals must remain neutral and accessible at all times, warning that any disruption to healthcare services directly endangers lives.
Dr Ratankumar further urged authorities to ensure the free movement of patients and healthcare workers. The concerns come amid reports that three ambulance drivers were allegedly assaulted by security personnel at Khurai Lamlong on April 17 while transporting a patient during protests.
