JNIMS Administration in Crisis: Allegations of Self-Interest Rise, Free Kidney Transplants Disappear

Imphal, March 4, 2025: The Jawaharlal Nehru Institute of Medical Sciences (JNIMS), once regarded as one of Manipur’s most trusted healthcare institutions, is now facing serious allegations of administrative failure, negligence, and corruption. Patients and their families are voicing their dissatisfaction over the declining state of the hospital, with many accusing certain staff members of prioritizing personal gain over public welfare.

JNIMS was once known for its efficiency, cleanliness, and patient-friendly policies, particularly during its administration under the Society. During that time, the hospital saw remarkable improvements in infrastructure, hygiene, and patient care. However, since coming under the direct administration of the Manipur State Government, its condition has seemingly deteriorated. Patients and their families claim that the services once freely available to the poor are now either inaccessible or have disappeared altogether.

One of the most concerning issues is the abrupt halt of the free kidney transplant program, which previously provided life-saving procedures to economically weaker sections. Many patients who had been counting on the program are now left in uncertainty, struggling to find alternative options for their treatment.

Apart from the lack of essential facilities, reports suggest that some hospital employees—including doctors, lab technicians, and administrative staff—are exploiting their positions for personal benefit. It is alleged that some government doctors secretly run private clinics or hospitals while being employed at JNIMS. Patients visiting JNIMS are often referred to private clinics and labs owned by the same doctors and technicians, forcing them to spend more money. Certain lab technicians operate their own private laboratories, allegedly prioritizing profits over patient care. Allegations of nepotism have surfaced, with claims that hospital staff have been hiring their own relatives, further weakening the system.

Many patients’ families have expressed frustration over the state of the hospital. “A hospital is meant to save lives, but here, patients fear they might contract new diseases instead of receiving proper treatment,” said one patient’s relative. Reports of unhygienic conditions, lack of basic facilities, and improper waste disposal have only added to the growing public anger.

Adding to the chaos is the poor attendance record of the JNIMS Director, which has raised serious concerns about the hospital’s leadership. According to reports, in 2022, the Director was present for only 34 days. In 2023, his attendance dropped drastically to just 1 day. In 2024, he was reportedly present for only 28 days. According to the National Medical Commission (NMC) guidelines, hospital staffs must have at least 75% attendance in a year. However, the Director’s total attendance over the last three years does not even add up to the required 75% for a single year.

Many people have questioned how a person with such low attendance can effectively oversee the hospital’s operations and ensure its proper functioning. Concerns have also been raised about whether the lack of administrative oversight is contributing to the hospital’s decline.

With the hospital’s condition worsening day by day, the public is demanding urgent action from the Governor of Manipur, the Chief Secretary, and other relevant authorities. If immediate steps are not taken to investigate the allegations and reform JNIMS’s administration, the institution may continue to spiral into crisis.