Manipur's Health Crisis: Thousands Suffer as RIMS Doctors Strike Indefinitely

A deepening healthcare crisis has gripped Manipur as an indefinite strike by doctors at the prestigious Regional Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS) in Imphal continues to inflict immense suffering on thousands of patients. What began as a protest on September 16, has rapidly escalated, transforming into a humanitarian concern as critical medical services grind to a halt, leaving the vulnerable with nowhere to turn.

The strike, spearheaded by a united front including the RIMS Teachers' and Medical Officers' Association (RIMSTMOA), the Senior Residents' Association (SRA), and the Resident Doctors' Association (RDA), stems from long-standing grievances.

At the core of their demands are the regular payment of salaries for senior residents and resident doctors, the long-overdue implementation of the 7th Central Pay Commission (CPC) recommendations, and the provision of Non-Practicing Allowance (NPA) for faculty members.

For months, doctors at RIMS have reportedly faced erratic and delayed salary disbursements, creating significant financial instability for them and their families.

Despite repeated appeals and representations to both the Union Health Ministry and the RIMS administration, their pleas have seemingly fallen on deaf ears, pushing them to this drastic measure as a last resort to demand their fundamental rights.

The fallout for the general public has been catastrophic.

Each day, an estimated two thousand out-patient department (OPD) patients, many of whom travel long distances from remote and rural areas, are met with locked doors and cancelled appointments. The sheer volume of patients underscores RIMS's critical role as a healthcare lifeline for the entire Northeast region.

With OPD services virtually non-existent, and even emergency services operating with a skeleton staff, the burden has disproportionately fallen on private clinics and hospitals, which are now overwhelmed and often financially inaccessible to the common citizen.

Stories of distress are emerging from every corner.

Patients suffering from chronic illnesses, those requiring follow-up consultations, and individuals in urgent need of diagnosis are left in limbo, their health deteriorating with each passing day. The financial strain on families is immense, with many forced to choose between essential medical care and other necessities.

This indefinite strike at a premier medical institution not only highlights the plight of the doctors but also exposes a systemic failure in addressing the legitimate concerns of healthcare providers.

As the standoff continues, the clock ticks against the health and well-being of Manipur's populace. The urgent need for intervention from the authorities cannot be overstated, as every day of the strike pushes more families into despair and risks the lives of countless individuals.