Mob storms RIMS Imphal, assaults Gynaecologist

Imphal: In a recent incident of violence at the Regional Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS), Imphal, a senior gynaecologist was allegedly assaulted by an angry mob following the death of a woman during a caesarean delivery. The mob also vandalised hospital property, prompting the suspension of all health services at the institute.

The deceased, identified as a 35-year-old woman, reportedly died due to complications after a caesarean delivery. Her family has alleged medical negligence on the part of the RIMS medical professionals.

The woman's family members started protesting on the hospital premises, vandalised some property and assaulted a doctor. They were later joined by a large group of people from the woman’s neighbourhood.

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According to the PTI report, the Teachers and Medical Officers Association (TAMOA) later announced a complete shutdown of all services with immediate effect until the culprits involved in assaulting the senior consultant were arrested.

In a statement, the RIMS authorities mourned the untimely death of the woman and assured her family that the matter will be reviewed with utmost seriousness, and steps will be taken to address their grievances.

The hospital also condemned the vandalism and attack, saying that they could lead to legal issues.

"The incident has triggered widespread outrage among relatives and locals, who staged a protest demanding accountability from the hospital authorities. During the agitation, a professor of RIMS was assaulted and hospital property was vandalised," the statement said, reports PTI.

Following the incident, the doctor suffered injuries and is currently undergoing treatment at the trauma ICU of the hospital.

Damaging public property, manhandling medical professionals, and resorting to violence are unlawful acts, it said, adding that such actions not only hamper essential healthcare services but may also invite legal consequences.

According to the Ukhrul Times, “Normal duties will resume only when the working environment becomes safe and conducive,” the association stated, while urging RIMS authorities to lodge an FIR and ensure strict legal action against the perpetrators.

The RIMS appealed to all sections of society to maintain peace, respect public institutions, and extend cooperation in resolving the matter through appropriate legal and administrative channels.

Meanwhile, the TAMOA condemned the “false allegations” and physical attack on one of its members and resolved to halt all services at RIMS, including OPD, emergency care and routine operations with immediate effect, until the culprits are booked, punished, and a safe working environment is ensured.

The Association, however, clarified that patients already admitted will continue to receive care and attention.

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