Manipur: Students faint, schools closed abruptly as police fire tear gas during Imphal East protest

The Co-Ordinating Committee on Disturbance-Free Educational Zone Demand, a joint body of teachers and students' organizations, strongly condemned today's police response to a protest rally that severely disrupted local schools.

The incident occurred in Imphal East district, where a large group of internally displaced people staged a protest rally from a relief camp at Ideal Girl College in Akampat. To curb the rally, security forces fired multiple rounds of tear gas, rubber bullets, and smoke bombs, creating a chaotic situation near the school premises.

As classes were in session at nearby institutions, including Eastern Ideal School and S. Chaoba Memorial School, the intense police action caused panic among students. Several students reportedly fainted, and schools had to be abruptly closed. Parents hurried to collect their children, while teachers took immediate action to ensure students' safety.

In response, the Co-Ordinating Committee issued a press release denouncing the excessive use of force. They emphasized the severity of the situation, noting that the students were in class when the disturbance began. The committee criticized the police for instilling fear and panic among students, and urged the state government to implement measures to prevent such incidents in the future.

The committee highlighted the psychological impact on students, many of whom continue to suffer from trauma associated with the protest and police action. They called for a reassessment of security measures to avoid further disruptions to the educational environment.