Ongoing Tensions in Manipur Affecting Education of Pangal Students

Tensions in Manipur's Thoubal district have persisted for over two weeks following violent clashes between Khongabok and Sangaiyumpham villagers. This unrest has left around 1,000 Pangal students unable to attend school in predominantly Maitei areas, significantly affecting their education. The violence, which has resulted in numerous fatalities and displacements over the past three years, was triggered by a tragic incident during a concert. As both communities form separate action committees to address their grievances, efforts for peace and resolution remain ongoing, with authorities prioritizing the safe return of children to school.

By Narendra Chaudhary Nov 5, 2026, 17:21 IST

Continued Strife in Thoubal District

Imphal: Tensions that erupted on October 18 between residents of Khongabok and Sangaiyumpham villages in Thoubal district remain unresolved even after 16 days. This unrest has left approximately 1,000 Pangal (Muslim) students unable to attend schools located in predominantly Maitei (Hindu) areas, severely impacting their education. It is noteworthy that ongoing ethnic violence in the state has resulted in around 350 fatalities and displaced nearly 60,000 individuals over the past three years.

Incident Triggering Violence

The conflict began during a concert at a playground separating the two villages, where stone-pelting led to the death of Rakesh Laishram from Khongabok. Following this incident, the area witnessed arson and heightened tensions. To restore order, authorities have confiscated licensed firearms from villagers and deployed Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) and Rapid Action Force (RAF) units for security. Both villages have formed separate Joint Action Committees (JAC) to address their respective demands.

Impact on Students

According to Atour Rahman, the coordinator of the Sangaiyumpham JAC, the atmosphere of fear is so intense that nearly 1,000 students from primary to high school have been unable to attend school since October 18, including about 700 from Sangaiyumpham alone. He noted that there are no arrangements for online classes for these children. While Khongabok villagers have not actively prevented any child from attending, the fear stemming from both sides remaining confined to their areas has hindered the students from going to school.

Clarifications from Khongabok

On the other hand, Thokchom Kiran, co-coordinator of the Khongabok JAC, clarified that their village has not imposed any restrictions on Pangal children attending school and does not harbor animosity towards them. He mentioned that delays in peace talks are due to the Sangaiyumpham villagers not offering an apology for the murder incident or presenting the accused. He added that their village is currently occupied with the funeral rites of the deceased, which will conclude on November 6, after which they will consider their next steps.

Efforts for Resolution

Meanwhile, both JACs have met with Chief Minister Yumkham Khemchand Singh and the state's Home Minister. Despite the Chief Minister's visit to both villages on October 28, a peace meeting has yet to take place. Officials have clarified that this violence is not a communal conflict between the two communities but rather a local dispute, with no similar incidents reported elsewhere in the valley. Thoubal's Superintendent of Police, M. Prabhakar, stated that there is currently no violence in the area, and the administration's top priority is to ensure that children can return to school in a safe environment as soon as possible.