Manipur MLA inaugurates first private healthcare centre in conflict-hit Saikul

In a significant development for conflict-affected regions of Manipur, Kimneo Hangshing on April 29 inaugurated L&S Compassionate Healthcare at Saikul Hill Town in Kangpokpi district, marking the establishment of the area’s first private healthcare clinic after prolonged conflict and instability disrupted access to reliable medical services.

 

The newly inaugurated healthcare facility is being viewed as a major step toward restoring critical healthcare infrastructure in one of the district’s worst conflict-affected regions. The centre will provide a range of services including outpatient care, in-patient facilities, emergency and trauma response, diagnostic services, radiology, CT scan, laboratory services, and a 24/7 pharmacy.

 

The inauguration ceremony, attended by church leaders, civil society organisations, government officials, and local residents, symbolized resilience and recovery for communities that have endured violence, displacement, and limited healthcare access over the past several years.

 

A major highlight of the programme was a presentation by John Lupheng, who outlined the vision and mission of the healthcare centre.

 

Speaking after inaugurating the facility, MLA Kimneo Hangshing described the arrival of a comprehensive private healthcare institution in Saikul as both a developmental milestone and a humanitarian necessity.

 

She stated that repeated episodes of violence in the region had exposed severe gaps in emergency medical response, trauma care, and diagnostic accessibility, making the establishment of the healthcare centre especially crucial for local residents.

 

The MLA emphasized that quality healthcare should not remain inaccessible for hill communities, particularly in conflict-prone regions where timely treatment can determine survival. She added that rebuilding Saikul must involve not only peace and security but also institutions that directly support human wellbeing and dignity.

 

Hangshing also lauded the founders and stakeholders of the healthcare centre for bringing advanced healthcare services to the grassroots level and helping bridge the longstanding healthcare gap between hill and urban populations.

 

Dr. John Lupheng said the centre was established on the principle of “Healing Hands and Caring Hearts,” with a commitment to delivering quality and compassionate healthcare to underserved communities.

 

He noted that the facility was founded to address the urgent need for accessible treatment in Saikul and surrounding areas, where many patients previously faced delayed referrals and preventable medical complications due to the absence of nearby advanced healthcare facilities.

 

The programme also featured a dedication ceremony led by Hegin Misao, who offered prayers for healing, protection, and guidance for the institution and its staff.

 

Community leaders, civil society organisations, and residents described the launch as a historic and hopeful moment for families affected by conflict and displacement, expressing optimism that the healthcare centre would become a vital pillar of healing and recovery in the region.

 

The inauguration of L&S Compassionate Healthcare is now being seen as a broader symbol of rebuilding in Saikul, highlighting the importance of strengthening healthcare systems alongside peacebuilding and development efforts in conflict-affected areas.