Imphal: The Regional Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS) in Imphal is once again under fire following the death of a 50-year-old patient who allegedly did not receive timely treatment. The incident has triggered protests inside the hospital premises, with the patient’s family and locals demanding accountability from the medical staff.
Incident and Protests
The deceased, a resident of Sekta Village under Lamlai Police Station, was admitted to RIMS for treatment but his condition deteriorated, and he was declared dead shortly after. Angry relatives staged a protest inside the hospital, confronting staff members and demanding strict action.
The situation soon escalated, drawing a large crowd that gathered outside the hospital, sparking a public outcry for justice and accountability. Security has since been tightened within the premises to avoid further unrest.
Family Demands
The bereaved family has demanded:
- Dismissal of the doctor involved,
- Immediate intervention by authorities, and
- Measures to prevent such incidents in the future.
They have also refused to collect the body until action is taken against the medical staff.
Pattern of Negligence Allegations
This case comes close on the heels of another controversy at RIMS, where a 52-year-old woman allegedly died after being given the wrong injection. That incident also sparked protests and public anger over repeated lapses in patient care at Manipur’s premier medical institution.
Institutional Crisis
RIMS has been facing continued backlash in recent months. Earlier, widespread protests by medical, dental, nursing, and paramedical students against the Director—over allegations of mental harassment and abuse—led to the resignation of the Dean and Sub-Dean.
The latest death has further intensified scrutiny on RIMS, raising questions about the hospital’s accountability, management, and patient safety standards.
