NCST urged to aid transfer of MU Kuki students
Source: Chronicle News Service

Kangpokpi, July 25 2024: Kuki Students' Organisation (KSO) has made an appeal to National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST) member Nirupam Chakma seeking urgent action in facilitating transfer of displaced Kuki students from Manipur University to North-Eastern Hill University (NEHU) and Assam University as mandated by the order of Supreme Court of India issued in 2023 .

In a representation to the NCST member, the students" body emphasised the dire need for intervention, highlighting the plight of hundreds of students who have been unable to pursue their education due to administrative delays.

KSO education secretary Thangmoi Haokip"s representation alleged inaction on the part of authorities in implementing an SC order issued eight months back mandating transfer of displaced students to ensure their uninterrupted education amid ongoing conflict in Manipur.

Outlining several critical issues faced by the displaced students, Thangmoi Haokip noted that despite the SC"s directive, there has been no progress in the transfer process for the displaced students of MU with the students' repeated applications and follow-ups gone unanswered, causing immense frustration and uncertainty.

He also pointed out that PhD scholars are facing severe setbacks in continuing their studies online while the retirement of their supervisors and complications with migration certificates from MU have further exacerbated the situation.

The delay has left 284 students in a state of limbo and such prolonged inaction has had a detrimental impact on the academic aspirations of these students, he mentioned.

Highlighting the tireless efforts of the KSO in advocating for the rights of the displaced students since the onset of the crisis in the state, Haokip said that they have submitted numerous representations to the University Grants Commission (UGC) chairman seeking swift action, however, they have received no response from the relevant authorities till date.

In light of these challenges, the KSO appealed to Nirupam Chakma for his immediate attention and intervention urging him to facilitate the expedited transfer of displaced students to NEHU and AU, as per the SC's directive.

The students" body also conveyed hopes that prompt action will alleviate the distress faced by Kuki community students and allow them to resume their educational pursuits without further hindrance.

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