Unidentified individuals vandalised parts of the Operation Theatre (OT) section at Churachandpur District Hospital on the night of June 17, 2026 and allegedly attempted to set it on fire, triggering fresh concerns over the safety of healthcare institutions amid Manipur’s continuing ethnic tensions.
The incident took place at one of the district’s main referral healthcare facilities. According to multiple reports, a group entered the hospital premises, damaged sections of the OT complex, and tried to ignite a fire. No casualties were reported, but the attack caused significant damage to critical medical infrastructure.
A burglary was also reported at the office of the Chief Medical Officer (CMO) around the same time, further adding to concerns over security.
The Churachandpur Doctors’ Association strongly condemned the incidents and expressed concern over the developments.
“We are deeply saddened and concerned by the recent unfortunate incidents which occurred within the premises of the Churachandpur District Hospital, as well as the burglary reported at the office of the Chief Medical Officer,” the association said in a statement.
The doctors reaffirmed their commitment to providing healthcare services “without any discrimination based on caste, creed, religion or background.” They also appealed to all sections of society to maintain peace and preserve the sanctity of the hospital environment. The association noted that the hospital serves as the primary government healthcare referral centre for residents of Churachandpur and neighbouring areas.
The incident comes amid heightened tensions following the transfer of three injured Kuki youths from the Regional Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS) in Imphal to Churachandpur District Hospital late on June 16 or early June 17.
The youths identified in some reports as Genlenmang Vaiphei (18), Lunliandaw Vaiphei (20), and Paogou Lal (18) suffered bullet injuries during an exchange of fire between rival armed tribal groups near Leilon Vaiphei village in Kangpokpi district.
Their admission to RIMS had triggered protests in Imphal, where crowds gathered outside the hospital. Security forces reportedly used tear gas to control the situation. Protesters raised slogans such as “No Treatment for Terrorists,”. The injured youths were later shifted to Churachandpur under heavy security during the night.