Imphal, 15 June (HS): A tense situation unfolded at the Regional Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS) in Imphal on Monday after the admission of three injured persons from the Kuki community sparked large-scale protests on the hospital premises.
The injured individuals were brought to RIMS for treatment following a reported gunfight near Leilon Vaiphei and Konsakhul villages in Kangpokpi district earlier in the day. The exchange of fire allegedly left three people wounded, who were later shifted to the medical institute for specialized care.
Soon after their arrival, protesters gathered outside the hospital gate and raised slogans opposing their admission. Despite a heavy deployment of security personnel, demonstrators later entered the RIMS campus and continued their protest, alleging that the injured persons were linked to rival Kuki faction groups.
Addressing the media, All Naga Students’ Association, Manipur (ANSAM) questioned the role of Indian security forces in escorting the injured individuals to the hospital. He alleged that the clash involved Kuki militant factions and sought an explanation for the security cover provided during their transportation.
He also referred to the recent killing of six Naga civilians, alleging the involvement of Kuki militants and demanding accountability from the authorities and security agencies.
In response to the escalating situation, authorities strengthened security arrangements in and around the RIMS campus and maintained heightened vigilance to prevent any untoward incident.
No official statement had been issued by the concerned authorities regarding the allegations made by the protesters at the time of filing this report.------------
Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash
