A 10-month-old girl died en route to the hospital after being detained at an unauthorized checkpoint by Assam Rifles in Manipur’s Tengnoupal district. The Kuki Students’ Organization demands justice
BY PC Bureau
April 23, 2025 —
A routine security check turned tragically fatal on April 20 when a 10-month-old infant died after her family was allegedly held up for over an hour by personnel of the 5th Assam Rifles near Moreh, Tengnoupal district in South Manipur. The child, who was in critical condition, was being rushed to a hospital when the delay occurred, sparking widespread outrage.
The incident occurred on the night of April 20, when Baby Hatzoukim, daughter of Mr. Jaote and Mrs. Phaneilhing of Thingphai Village, Khengjoi Sub-division, was being rushed to Moreh for emergency medical treatment. According to the Kuki Students’ Organization (KSO), the vehicle carrying the critically ill child was stopped around 9.30 P.M. at an unauthorized checkpoint on the Asian Highway near Moreh by AR personnel under the command of Major Shripati.
𝐏𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐑𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞
𝟐𝟑𝐫𝐝 𝐀𝐩𝐫𝐢𝐥 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓The KSO, Khengjoi Block strongly condemns the inhumane and negligent action of the 5th Assam Rifles personnel posted at Moreh which directly led to the tragic death of a 10-month old baby girl. @official_dgar @MIB_India pic.twitter.com/Mg0iHmcYnf
— KSO Chandel (@KSO_Chandel) April 23, 2025
Despite repeated pleas from the family about the child’s condition, the security forces allegedly detained them for over an hour under the pretext of a routine check. Upon finally reaching the Moreh Hospital, the infant was declared dead.
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The KSO described the incident as “inhumane and negligent,” claiming the delay directly contributed to the child’s death and accusing the Assam Rifles of “an unacceptable abuse of power” and “a complete disregard for human life.”
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In a statement issued today, the KSO Khengjoi Block demanded:
- A high-level inquiry into the incident with full transparency;
- Strict disciplinary and legal action against the officers and personnel involved;
- A permanent halt to unauthorized roadside checks, particularly those that endanger civilians during medical emergencies.
The organization extended its condolences to the bereaved family and expressed its unwavering support in their pursuit of justice
