Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, October 30 2009:
Asserting that the indefinite closure of all educational institutions in some valley districts of Manipur is uncalled for and is taking the issue beyond limits, the ATSUM has appealed to both the Government and the agitating groups (AMSU, MSF and KSA) to work out a solution so that the ban imposed on educational institutions is lifted by the end of October.
A press release issued by ATSUM informed that it held an emergency federal assembly today where recommendations of the public meeting held on October 24 were discussed minutely.
Sharing the pain and sorrow of the bereaved families of the July 23 killing at BT Road, the ATSUM remarked that the protest agitation launched under the banner of the Apunba Lup against the twin killing is justified.
It also appealed to all concerned to allow private schools collect their normal school fees so that teachers get their salaries.
In case the private schools are not allowed to collect school fees, the State Government should treat the present impasse as a 'calamity' and compensate private school teachers.
If either one of these two terms is not accepted, ATSUM would use all its might and resources to make a token payment to these teachers even if it is just one rupee for one teacher, it said.
It also appealed that normal exams conducted by BSEM for HSLC and COHSEM for Class XII and those by Manipur University be held as scheduled.
In the event of normal classes not resuming by November 1, ATSUM would be organising residential coaching classes at selected centres across the State, specially for HSLC and Class XII exam candidates.
ATSUM also appealed to the Government to intervene so that any student desirous of shifting their institutions can do it freely.
ATSUM would be compelled to think of alternative options if the present impasse continues beyond the 'limit', added the release.