The Manipur government has ordered the closure of all schools, colleges, and universities across the state from August 20 to August 22. This decision comes amid widespread protests and a 48-hour general strike organized by the Campaign for Just and Fair Delimitation (JFD), which is demanding an update to the national register of citizens (NRC) before the upcoming census.
Why Are Schools and Colleges Closed?
The closure affects every educational institution in Manipur, including government, government-aided, and private schools and colleges affiliated with various boards such as the Board of Secondary Education, Council of Higher Secondary Education, and the Central Board of Secondary Education. Universities and higher education institutions are also included in the shutdown.
The government cited the prevailing law-and-order situation as the reason for the temporary closure. The protests have disrupted normal life in several districts, prompting authorities to take precautionary measures to ensure the safety of students and staff.
Details of the Protests and Demands
- The Campaign for Just and Fair Delimitation (JFD) has called for a 48-hour general strike starting August 20, which includes a boycott of all government offices from August 21.
- Protesters are demanding that the national register of citizens (NRC) be updated before the census is conducted in Manipur.
- In the Imphal East district, demonstrators burned effigies of Chief Minister Y. Khemchand Singh and Home Minister Govindas Konthoujam, demanding that the census be postponed until internally displaced persons (IDPs) return to their homes.
- Rallies and road blockades have taken place in multiple districts including Imphal West, Imphal East, Bishnupur, and Thoubal, with protesters stopping private vehicles and security forces.
- A census training program for supervisors and enumerators scheduled in Thoubal district was canceled due to the unrest.
What the Shutdown Means for Students and the Community
The closure of educational institutions disrupts academic schedules and affects thousands of students across Manipur. With the protests showing no immediate signs of abating, the government’s decision aims to prevent any incidents that could endanger students or staff during this period of unrest.
For many families, the closure adds uncertainty to an already tense situation. The demands of the protesters highlight deep concerns about citizenship status and the accuracy of demographic data, which have significant implications for resource allocation and political representation in the state.
Authorities face the challenge of balancing public safety with the need to maintain essential government functions, including the census, which is a critical exercise for planning and governance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why are the protests happening in Manipur?
A: The protests are organized by the Campaign for Just and Fair Delimitation, which demands that the national register of citizens be updated before the census to ensure accurate population data and address concerns about displaced persons.
Q: Which educational institutions are affected by the closure?
A: All schools, colleges, and universities across Manipur, including government, aided, and private institutions affiliated with various educational boards, will remain closed from August 20 to 22.
Q: How will the protests impact the census process?
A: The protests have led to cancellations of census training programs and disruptions in several districts, potentially delaying the census exercise until the situation stabilizes.
