The Government of Manipur has announced the temporary closure of educational institutions, including colleges and state universities, in Imphal West and Imphal East districts due to the ongoing curfew. This decision, taken by the Secretariat Higher and Technical Education Department, will keep these institutions closed until Tuesday.
The closure comes in coordination with the Home Department, prioritizing the safety of students and teachers amid the current unrest. An official order stated, "Due to the curfew imposed by District Magistrates in several districts and considering the safety of students and educators, all government institutions and aided colleges under the Higher & Technical Education Department, including state universities, will remain closed for two days from November 18 to November 19."
In addition to the closures, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) has taken over the investigation of three major cases tied to the recent surge in violence. These incidents, which occurred in the first half of November, have resulted in several deaths and severe disruptions in Manipur.
The Ministry of Home Affairs directed the transfer of the cases from the Manipur Police to the NIA, citing the intensity and impact of the violence. The first incident, reported on November 8, involved the killing of a woman in Jiribam by armed militants. The second, registered on November 11, involved an attack on a Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) post in the Jakuradhor Karong area of Jiribam. The third case, also recorded on November 11, pertained to the burning of homes and the killing of civilians in Borobekra.
Tensions escalated further on Sunday when violence in Manipur intensified, leading to the enforcement of a curfew in Imphal West and Imphal East. This action followed the grim discovery of six deceased individuals, prompting a swift response from the authorities.
In light of the rising violence, the state government has also suspended internet services across seven districts to prevent the spread of misinformation and to enhance security. The situation has led to increased police presence around critical locations, including the residence of Chief Minister Biren Singh and the Raj Bhavan, with restricted vehicle movement observed in affected regions.
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