Supreme Court Orders Medical Examination for Kuki Prisoner in Manipur

The Supreme Court of India has expressed strong displeasure over the Manipur government’s failure to provide medical care to Lunkhongam Haokip, an undertrial prisoner from the Kuki community. The court noted that Haokip was not taken to the hospital due to his community background.

Details of the Case

A bench of Justices JB Pardiwala and Ujjal Bhuyan criticized the state, stating, “We do not trust the State (Manipur)… The accused was not taken to hospital because he is from the Kuki community. So sad. We direct him to be examined now. If the medical report reveals something serious, we will take you to task. Remember that.”

Haokip’s counsel reported that he was suffering from piles, tuberculosis, and severe backache, but jail officials ignored his requests for medical help. The court found that the prisoner was not taken to the hospital due to concerns about the law and order situation.

Supreme Court’s Directive

The court ordered the jail superintendent and state authorities to arrange Haokip’s transportation to Gauhati Medical College for a thorough medical examination. The examination will cover piles, TB, tonsillitis, abdominal pain, and lower lumbar spine issues. The court mandated that all expenses be borne by the state and required a detailed medical report to be submitted by July 15.

Background of the Violence

Violence in Manipur between the Meiteis and the tribal Kuki community erupted after a rally by the All Tribal Students Union of Manipur (ATSUM) on May 3, 2023. The situation escalated, leading to the deployment of paramilitary forces to restore order.