1. 316 college students in Manipur seek transfers as the crisis prolongs.
2. The exodus highlights the disruptive impact of persistent ethnic strife on educational pursuits.
3. The plight of transfer-seeking students underscores the hurdles faced in continuing their education.
Imphal, Nov 13: As the crisis in Manipur persists, attention is drawn to the plight of 316 college students seeking transfers amidst the ongoing ethnic strife that has gripped the region for the past six months.
The conflict has led to a stark division between the Meitei-majority valley and the tribal-dominated hill districts, causing the Kuki-Zo people to avoid the valley, and the Meiteis to stay away from the hills.
The state’s BJP-led government, in a recent two-page media statement, disclosed that 252 students from the Imphal Valley are requesting transfers to colleges in the hill districts, while 64 students from the hill districts are seeking transfers to valley colleges.
The government acknowledged the challenges faced by displaced students due to the violent conflict that began in May and outlined measures to alleviate their hardships.
Manipuri University has implemented online facilities for students unable to attend physical classes because of the conflict.
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Additionally, efforts are underway to organize physical classes for undergraduate and postgraduate students in Churachandpur and other affected hill districts. The statement assures affected students that they can secure provisional admission without producing documents that may have been lost or damaged during the conflict.
Under the Chief Minister’s College Students Rehabilitation Scheme 2023, the transfer of students between colleges is allowed. Manipur University is set to update the records with the names of students and regenerate burnt, damaged, or lost documents upon request.
The ongoing conflict stems from the Kuki-Zo people’s demand for a separate administration citing security reasons, leading to deepening distrust between communities and sporadic violence. Despite the government’s efforts, there is little indication of talks initiated by governmental or civil society organizations to resolve the conflict.
The government’s statement followed a massive “March Against Education Negligence” organized by Kuki-Zo students in Churachandpur, highlighting the challenges they face due to the ongoing unrest and seeking alternative arrangements for continuing their education without disruptions.
The statement emphasizes the benefits extended to affected students, covering various educational institutions and relief measures provided by the government, aiming to address the grievances and challenges posed by the crisis.
