Assam directs officials to prioritize ambulances over VIP movements

The Assam Chief Minister's Office has directed all district commissioners and superintendents of police across the state to ensure that ambulances and emergency vehicles are never halted for VIP convoys, addressing concerns raised after a recent incident in Silchar.

The directive, while emphasizing the importance of security protocols, makes clear that the movement of emergency medical vehicles takes precedence over official motorcades. The order specifically states that the Chief Minister's own convoy may be paused if required to allow ambulances and other emergency vehicles to proceed without delay.

The move comes after public outcry over an incident in Silchar where an ambulance was reportedly stopped to allow a VIP convoy to pass, sparking criticism of prioritizing protocol over emergency medical services. The fresh guidelines aim to balance security requirements with the critical need to ensure unobstructed passage for patients requiring urgent medical attention.

State authorities have emphasized that the directive is binding on all officials involved in VIP movement coordination. The order reinforces that no protocol or security arrangement should compromise the timely transport of emergency patients to medical facilities, particularly in cases where delays could prove life-threatening.