In the wake of ongoing violence and curfew impositions in several districts of Manipur, all educational institutions in the Imphal Valley will remain closed until November 23, authorities announced on Wednesday. The decision to close schools, colleges, and universities was made in consideration of the safety of students, teachers, and staff members.
According to an official order from Daryal Juli Anal, Joint Secretary of the Higher and Technical Education Department, the closure will apply to both government and government-aided institutions, including state universities, in districts where curfews have been imposed. The curfew was implemented following widespread unrest that began on November 16, triggered by the discovery of six bodies—three women and three children—in Jiribam district, which led to violent protests in Imphal East and Imphal West.
The affected districts include Imphal West, Imphal East, Thoubal, Bishnupur, and Kakching, which are part of the Imphal Valley region. The decision follows growing concerns about the safety of those in educational institutions, and the government believes this precaution is necessary amid the volatile situation.
In response to the disturbances, the government had already imposed curfews in multiple areas, but authorities relaxed the curfew for five hours on Thursday, allowing residents in four of the Imphal Valley districts—Imphal East, Imphal West, Thoubal, and Kakching—to purchase essential goods and perform important tasks from 5 a.m. to 10 a.m.
The situation remains tense, and authorities have also decided to extend the suspension of mobile internet and data services in the seven troubled districts of Imphal Valley and the surrounding hills. The suspension will remain in place from 5:15 p.m. on Wednesday to 5:15 p.m. on Saturday. These districts include Imphal West, Imphal East, Bishnupur, Thoubal, Kakching, Kangpokpi, and Churachandpur.
With the situation still volatile, the government has urged citizens to remain cautious, and further updates will be provided as the situation develops.
Sources By Agencies