Photo Courtesy: nenews
Imphal: Three Kuki youths receiving medical treatment at the Regional Institute of Medical Sciences in Imphal were transferred to Churachandpur Medical College early Wednesday morning. The move occurred shortly after midnight under heavy security following two days of intense protests at the hospital gates.
The three patients, identified as Genlenmang Vaiphei, 18, Lunliandaw Vaiphei, 20, and Paogou Lal, 18, were injured during a gunfight between rival tribal groups in the Kangpokpi district on Monday. The controversy surrounding their stay at the facility intensified after demonstrators alleged that the injured youths were militants. One of the individuals is reportedly a football player who has represented Mohun Bagan.
Tensions reached a breaking point on Tuesday night when protesters attempted to enter the hospital premises to demand custody of the patients. Security forces used tear gas and a baton charge to disperse the crowds after stones were thrown at personnel stationed near the entrance. The transfer followed negotiations between protest representatives and the RIMS director, as well as assurances from officials including Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh.
Regarding the identity of the patients, the controversy began after protesters claimed that the injured youths were "militants" wounded in a firing incident near Leilon Vaiphei village. The situation remained volatile until the ambulances, escorted by security personnel, successfully moved the patients to the new medical facility.
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