JAC suspends blockade following death of Hijam Ibemcha at RIMS

The Joint Action Committee (JAC) formed in connection with the death of Hijam Ibemcha Devi, who passed away while undergoing surgery at the Regional Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS) on August 19, has temporarily suspended its indefinite blockade along the Imphal–Dimapur Road at Sekmai.
The suspension came after an understanding was reached between RIMS authorities and representatives of the JAC. However, the JAC cautioned that if their demands remain unfulfilled, the agitation will be resumed. Reports added that the local MLA of Sekmai Assembly Constituency and the Officer-in-Charge of Sekmai Police Station also met with JAC members after the talks.
Meanwhile, RIMS has issued a statement expressing condolences to the bereaved family and confirming that an internal inquiry has already been initiated, with the findings expected shortly.
According to the institute, late Hijam Ibemcha, aged 52, was admitted on August 14 with a right leg bone fracture sustained in an accidental fall on August 13. She was scheduled to undergo open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) with plating under regional/spinal anesthesia on August 19. However, before the surgery could be performed, she suddenly developed cardiorespiratory failure. Despite intensive resuscitative efforts, she could not be revived.
RIMS further clarified that the exact cause of death will be determined after the post-mortem examination and assured full cooperation with all ongoing and future investigations by competent authorities.