SENAPATI, Nov 6: In the wake of a visit by Smt. Dharkat Rungsung Luikang, Deputy Secretary, Health Research, Government of India, to Senapati District Hospital, YOUTH RISE FOR CHANGE (YR4C) paid a short visit to the hospital and exposed the deplorable state of the healthcare facility, sparking outrage and concern among locals. The hospital, the sole healthcare hub for the district, is struggling with acute staff shortages, inadequate infrastructure, and poor sanitation.

According to YR4C’s fact-finding team, the hospital has a sanctioned strength of 181 medical staff, but only 90 are posted, with 27 doctors and 13 nurses trying to cope with the workload. The hospital’s 100-bed capacity has been reduced to 50, leaving patients to suffer due to unfilled vacancies. Basic amenities like water are unavailable, forcing patients to use mineral water in washrooms and toilets, which are also in an unsanitary state.

“The situation is dire,” said Smt. Helen Shimray, Medical Superintendent of Senapati District Hospital. “Our medical team faces immense challenges in providing quality healthcare with inadequate manpower. We appeal to the authorities to address these issues urgently.”

YR4C’s team expressed shock and dismay at the state of the hospital, stating it’s a clear case of neglect by the authorities. The district population depends on this hospital, and its collapse will have catastrophic consequences.

The team strongly appeal the District Chief Medical Officer, Director of Health and Family Welfare Services, Government of Manipur, and Governor to take immediate action to address these issues, demanding the immediate filling of vacant medical posts, restoration of the hospital’s 100-bed capacity, provision of basic amenities like water and sanitation, and ensuring doctors’ availability and accountability.

The people of Senapati are counting on the authorities to act, with one patient lamenting, “We’re forced to suffer due to the government’s apathy. We need better healthcare, not empty promises.”