MSF, an independent medical humanitarian organisation, has been accused by the Dantewada district government in Chhattisgarh of assisting Maoist cadres; therefore we would like to clarify the internationally recognised humanitarian principles, on whose basis we have operated for 30 years in over 100 countries worldwide and since 1999 in India.

MSF, or Doctors without Borders, provides medical care to people suffering from the consequences of conflict, natural disaster. We provide medical aid regardless of race, religion, politics or sex. We do not ask patients who they are or what they believe in. If they need medical treatment, we treat them.

MSF is currently providing medical aid in the remote district of Dantewada in Chhattisgarh. Dantewada is already one of the most isolated and medically needy parts of India. According to the National Family Health Survey, one out of every two of its children is malnourished, and infant mortality is worryingly high. Adding to the poverty and lack of services is the armed conflict between the Maoist rebels and the state, supported by the Salwa Judum. Civilians on all sides of the conflict bear the brunt, as we see every day.

In order to provide medical care to the people on all sides of the conflict it is important that all the parties involved in the conflict recognise and accept the universal principles of impartiality, independence and neutrality.

These principles of medical humanitarian action are based on the principles of international humanitarian law and are established to protect persons no longer involved in combat — wounded soldiers, prisoners of war and of course civilians living in the conflict areas.

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