IMPHAL, May 8: Protest escalated at the Regional Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS) in Imphal on Wednesday after serious allegations emerged against the institute’s Director, sparking a widespread student protest demanding his immediate removal along with the Dean and Sub-Dean.

The controversy stems from a disciplinary action taken against students who had attended a picnic following the institute’s annual festival, RIMSAM. On May 1, the administration suspended the students for 10 days, imposed a ₹1,000 fine on each of them, and ordered them to vacate their hostel rooms by May 6—the same day the notice was issued. Students, many of whom are from outside the state, said the sudden action left them emotionally shaken and logistically stranded.

According to students, the Director used obscene language and made vulgar threats, including saying, “Do you girls want to dance naked in front of us?,” and “Will you commit suicide? If not, I’ll hang you.” Other remarks included “Fucking bastards,” “I’ll kill you,” and threats to fail students in upcoming university examinations. The remarks were reportedly made in a threatening tone, leaving students emotionally distressed and outraged.

The protest began with a large rally organized by MBBS students, starting from the All Manipur Students’ Union (AMSU) office at DM Campus, Imphal. Demonstrators condemned the Director’s behavior and also criticised the Dean and Sub-Dean, who were reportedly present during the incident, for remaining silent and failing to take any corrective action..

The Superintendent of RIMS eventually arrived to mediate, but the students refused to engage in dialogue unless swift and decisive action was taken.