Failure to take Kuki Undertrial to Hospital: Supreme Court criticizes Manipur government, orders to initiate medical examination

On July 03, 2024 (Wednesday), the Supreme Court (SC) of India expressed disappointment over the fact that an accused (undertrial) lodged in Manipur Central Jail was denied necessary medical care because he belonged to the Kuki community. The vacation bench constituting Justice JB Pardiwala and Justice Ujjal Bhuyan criticized the Manipur government stating “We do not trust the state…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.” The bench was hearing a plea filed by Lunkhongam Haokip who claimed that he was suffering from piles and TB (Tuberculosis) and the jail officials did not take him to the hospital despite having severe back pain. 

The SC in its order observed, “However, we notice something very disturbing. It appears that the petitioner is suffering from Piles, TB...he also complained before the jail authorities of severe back pain. On Nov 22, 2023, a medical officer examined and noticed tenderness in the lower spine and recommended an x-ray of the same, but unfortunately, such a facility was not available at Manipur Central Jail. The report does not say anything about TB or piles. In the impugned order, the HighC has said that the petitioner accused can not be taken out of jail as he belongs to the Kuki community and it would be hazardous because of the law and order situation.” 

After hearing the matter, the SC bench ordered, “We direct the jail superintendent as well as responsible authority of State of Manipur to make necessary arrangements for his transportation to Gauhati Medical College and get him examined therein. The medical exam shall be as regards piles, TB, tonsillitis, abdominal pain as well as problems in lower lumbar spine.” It also clarified that all the expenses were to be borne by the State and directed the officials to submit the detailed medical report before SC on or before July 15.