Tear gas near hospital, ambulance attacks disrupt medical services in Manipur

Healthcare services in Manipur have been severely affected amid ongoing unrest, with the Association of Healthcare Providers India (AHPI), Manipur Chapter, raising concern over the use of force near hospitals and the obstruction of medical work.

 

Addressing 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 a protest on the night of April 18. The incident left patients in distress, particularly those already undergoing treatment.

 

He said several patients “endured a very difficult and traumatic situation”, with some forced to shift wards or rooms after the tear gas reached the premises.

 

Dr Ratankumar pointed out that hospitals house vulnerable individuals, including the seriously ill and elderly, and should be kept out of conflict zones. “There are many ailing and weak persons in the hospital. The security forces should cordon the place ahead of the protest to keep the area safe,” he said, adding that despite this, the tear gas shells landed near the facility.

 

The association has written to the Home Commissioner, seeking intervention to prevent such incidents around hospitals. “It is the duty of the Government and security forces to see that hospitals are not harmed or disturbed. Instead of firing tear gas shells, security forces should have protected the hospital,” he said.

 

AHPI also flagged reports of attacks on ambulances, obstruction of emergency transport, and harassment of healthcare workers. Medical staff have reportedly faced verbal abuse, intimidation, and physical assault while on duty or travelling.

 

Calling the incidents a violation of humanitarian principles, the association stressed that hospitals must remain neutral and accessible at all times. Any disruption to healthcare services, it said, directly endangers lives.

 

Dr Ratankumar urged authorities and security personnel to ensure free movement of healthcare workers and patients, including those returning home after treatment.

 

The concerns come amid reports that three ambulance drivers were allegedly assaulted by security personnel at Khurai Lamlong during a protest on April 17, while transporting a patient.