Manipur: Massive protest erupts at RIMS over admission of three injured persons after Kangpokpi firing incident

Tense situation prevailed at the Regional Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS), Masnipur, after protests broke out following the admission of three injured persons from the Kuki community who were brought to the hospital for treatment after a firing incident in Kangpokpi district on June 15.

According to available information, a gunfight reportedly took place near Leilon Vaiphei and Konsakhul villages in Kangpokpi district, leaving three persons injured. The injured individuals were subsequently transported to RIMS for medical treatment.

Their arrival at the hospital triggered protests, with a large number of people gathering at the RIMS premises and expressing opposition to their admission. Protesters alleged that the incident involved rival Kuki faction groups and questioned the circumstances under which the injured persons were brought to the medical institution.

Speaking to the media, T.P. Dining, a leader of the All Naga Students’ Association (ANSAM), criticised Indian security forces over their alleged involvement in escorting the injured individuals to RIMS following the firing incident.

Claiming that the clash was between Kuki militant factions, Dining questioned why security personnel had allegedly facilitated transportation and protection for those he described as militants.

He further alleged that there was a larger conspiracy involving both the Central and State governments in supporting Kuki militant groups.

Dining also raised concerns over the recent killing of six Naga civilians, which he alleged was carried out by Kuki militants. He questioned the role of security agencies in preventing the incident and demanded accountability from the authorities.

Meanwhile, security measures in and around the RIMS campus were intensified as authorities deployed personnel and maintained heightened vigilance to prevent any untoward situation.

The protesters initially gathered outside the RIMS gate, raising slogans. But protesters entered the gate despite the heavy deployment of security forces and started protesting against the admission of the three injured persons. 

Officials had not issued an immediate statement regarding the allegations at the time of filing this report.