A 5-yr Study of Adolescent Deaths from 2009–2013 in Imphal

This is a 5-yr study on adolescent deaths in Imphal during the period 2009–13. The aim of the study is to find out the incidence, the profile of the victims and the circumstances of the deaths so as to analyze the precipitating factors and to suggest preventive measures. From the study it is found that road traffic accidents are the major causes followed by homicide with firearm injuries and suicide by hanging and poisoning. The high volume of traffic and the total chaos on the roads regarding traffic rules seem to be a major factor. As to the firearm deaths, the place is an insurgency infested region and rampant killing in the name of insurgency control is the rule of the day. Strict law enforcement and proper counseling of the youths can make a big difference.