Manipur scraps plan to reopen schools and colleges in Imphal Valley

Manipur cancelled the reopening of schools and colleges in the Imphal Valley and Jiribam, citing ongoing violence and safety concerns.

In Short

• Manipur scraps reopening of schools amid unrest
• Prohibitory orders relaxed for essentials from 5 am to 12 pm
• Schools, colleges in six districts remain closed

The Manipur government has reversed its earlier decision to reopen schools and colleges in Imphal Valley and Jiribam, keeping educational institutions shut due to ongoing unrest.

The decision to keep schools closed was announced through a late-night directive from the Directorate of Education – Schools.

The notice stated, “The school reopening order... dated November 24 regarding resumption of normal classes for all schools of the state, government, government-aided, private and central schools, is hereby cancelled and all schools of valley districts will continue to remain closed on 25th and 26th of November.”

A similar order was issued for colleges, ensuring that higher education institutions in the affected regions also remain closed.

IMPACT OF PROHIBITORY ORDERS

Schools and colleges in Imphal West, Imphal East, Thoubal, Bishnupur, Kakching, and Jiribam have already been closed for about a week due to prohibitory orders. These measures were implemented in response to fresh violence in the region, prioritising public safety.

The government has, however, relaxed prohibitory orders in the Valley from 5 am to 12 pm. This brief window allows residents to purchase essential supplies while maintaining overall security measures.

The decision to cancel the reopening of educational institutions reflects the volatile situation in the state. Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, with the safety of students and residents as their primary concern.

(With PTI inputs)