1. Proposed Imphal bandh called off amid ongoing HSSLC exams.
2. Tensions rise at Cheirap Court Complex over the arrest of six individuals.
3. Protestors allege detainees were civilians; and demand their release.
Imphal, Feb 21: A proposed bandh in Imphal, scheduled to commence on February 21 by a group of women vendors in response to the arrest of six individuals, has been called off due to the ongoing Higher Secondary School Leaving Certificate (HSSLC) examination.
Tensions escalated at the Cheirap Court Complex in Imphal East as protestors expressed anger over the arrests, claiming that the detainees were civilians.
The situation intensified when the Rapid Action Force (RAF) fired tear gas shells to disperse the protestors, resulting in injuries, including a video journalist.
Court officials and advocates condemned the use of tear gas inside the court complex, raising questions about its authorization.
Despite public demands for the release of the six arrested individuals, who were allegedly involved in recent arms and ammunition incidents, they have been remanded in judicial custody until March 5, 2024.
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In light of the escalating tensions, Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh urged the public to maintain peace, especially with the commencement of the state board examinations.
The Council of Higher Secondary Education Manipur (COHSEM) began the HSSLC Examination 2024 on the same day.
A total of 31,351 students are expected to participate in the examination across 111 centres.
However, this year’s examination faces challenges due to the prevailing unrest, leading to a decline in student numbers and exam centres compared to the previous year. In 2023, 36,000 students participated across 120 centres.
The students appearing for the exam this year represent 236 higher secondary schools affiliated with COHSEM.
