Educational Institutions in Manipur Reopen , Students Resume Classes Amid Ongoing Tensions

Imphal: Educational institutions in Manipur have reopened after being shut down for over 10 days due to violent unrest following the murder of six hostages from Jiribam by suspected Kuki militants. On the first day of reopening, many students returned to their classes, though the impact of the ongoing conflict on their studies remained evident.The frequent closure of schools has raised concerns among students, who feel at a disadvantage compared to their peers in other states. The disruption to their education due to the violence has had significant consequences, particularly on their academic progress.Khulem Memtonbi Devi, the Principal of Churachand Higher Secondary School, reported that the school, which currently enrolls 1,446 students in grades 9 through 12, has been facing challenges with reduced academic days. To address the gap, the school is conducting extra classes to cover the lost syllabus. She emphasized the importance of supporting students’ futures despite the difficult circumstances, noting the dedication of the faculty.The Directorate of Education issued a directive confirming the resumption of normal classes across all government, private, and central schools in the affected districts. Likewise, the Higher and Technical Education Department announced that government-aided colleges and state universities would reopen on November 29.The closures began on November 16, after violence erupted following the discovery of the bodies of six hostages from Jiribam, who had been kidnapped on November 11 during an attack by Kuki militants on the Borobekra police station. The violence, which included a gunfight between the CRPF and militants, led to several casualties, including two Meitei civilians.