BISHNUPUR, MANIPUR: In the wake of the May 2023 violence in Manipur, a heart-wrenching humanitarian crisis has emerged, leaving vulnerable populations, particularly pregnant women and terminally ill patients, grappling with unimaginable hardships. The ground reality paints a stark picture of devastation, loss, and a desperate need for immediate assistance.

Sanjita Chanu

Haobijam Sanjita Devi, a 22-year-old pregnant woman from Saikot village, Churachandpur, epitomizes the anguish faced by many. Her house, along with her Aadhaar card, was engulfed in the flames of violence, rendering her homeless and uncertain about the fate of her unborn child. Expressing her concern, she laments, “I wonder how I will manage to raise her newborn and when she will be able to return to her home in Saikot.”

Pregnant women, in particular, are grappling not only with the challenges of raising their children in uncertain conditions but also with the scarcity of nutritious meals essential for both maternal and child health. The relief camps, while providing some refuge, lack proper provisions for antenatal care, routine immunization, and support for lactating mothers.

Moirangthem Bilkee, Secretary of the Old DC Office Complex Relief Camp Loukoipat Bishnupur (right)

Health on Air’s attempts to investigate the situation revealed a more dire condition in the hill areas than in the valleys. Moirangthem Bilkee, Secretary of the Old DC Office Complex Relief Camp Loukoipat Bishnupur, shared a glimpse of the grim reality, listing the health conditions of the camp’s inhabitants, which include 13 lactating/nursing mothers, 2 pregnant women, 2 heart patients, 1 with liver cirrhosis, 1 undergoing kidney dialysis, 7 diabetic patients, and 1 person with a disability.

There are close to 350 such camps divided between the valley and the hills where over 60,000 displaced people have found refuge.

Terminally ill have it equally bad
Terminally ill patients, including cancer patients and those requiring dialysis, face the brunt of inadequate conditions. Urging for additional assistance, Bilkee emphasized, “It is crucial to highlight that all terminally ill patients, including lactating and nursing mothers, require extra care, supervision, and immediate medical attention for both the well-being of the mother and the well-being of their babies.”

The lack of essential drugs, deliveries occurring in ill-equipped camps, and the absence of facilities for people with disabilities compound the challenges. Referral health and educational facilities remain inaccessible to those in the hill camps, exacerbating an already dire situation.

The Kamjong hill district, home to the Tangkhul tribes, faces additional challenges due to its isolated nature and poor connectivity. Dr. Chambo Gonmei, State Immunization Officer, highlighted the difficulties, stating, “Retaining human resources in isolated hill districts is a challenge, but infrastructure is improving.” (As quoted by WHO)

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Public health infrastructure on the hills faces a shortage of staff, specialists, medicines, and consumables, amplifying the struggle for survival. If the current state of unrest persists, Manipur’s health indicators, including child mortality rate, which currently fare better than the national average, may worsen.

An unprecedented mental health crisis
The mental health crisis is palpable, with displaced families grappling with grief, anger, and resentment. Traumatized children, who have lost homes or family members, contribute to the urgency of addressing the broader issues affecting the state.

Moirangthou & his wife

Konthoujam Moirangthou Meitei, a 74-year-old resident of Thingkhang Phai village, Churchandpur, lost everything on the evening of May 4, 2023. He, along with his family, exhibits symptoms of trauma and requires counseling to overcome the painful experience of having lost their homes.

The plea for a safe and peaceful return home resonates collectively among the affected population, underscoring the pressing need for a resolution to the issues plaguing Manipur. As the state grapples with this humanitarian crisis, the importance of swift and comprehensive intervention cannot be overstated.