In a memorandum to Chief Minister Y Khemchand Singh, the group cited multiple incidents, including alleged firing near schools and ambushes targeting students in Ukhrul district.
BY PC Bureau
April 9, 2026 — The Kuki Students’ Organisation (KSO), Ukhrul District, has alleged a serious failure by authorities to ensure the safety of students in Manipur’s hill areas amid ongoing ethnic tensions.
In a memorandum titled “State Failure: Our Students Under Fire”, addressed to Chief Minister Y Khemchand Singh and other senior officials, the organisation expressed concern over what it described as repeated threats, violence, and unsafe conditions affecting schoolchildren. The KSO alleged that despite multiple reported incidents, there has been little visible action or assurance from authorities.
The organisation described the situation as a “complete breakdown” of basic human values and security assurances, alleging that authorities have failed to adequately respond.
READ: Curfew Defied Across Imphal Valley as Anger Mounts Over Child Killings
Incidents Cited by KSO
The KSO detailed several incidents in Ukhrul district, though these claims have not been independently verified by officials:
- March 24, 2026 – Indira Gandhi Hill Flower School: The organisation alleged that suspected Tangkhul militants set up bunkers approximately 250 metres from the school. During morning classes, stray bullets and explosions reportedly occurred, traumatising students and teachers. The school, already operating in split sessions due to low attendance and staff shortages, later shifted classes to a nearby church, but safety concerns persisted.
- March 24, 2026 – Blossom English School: The KSO claimed that students returning after completing their month-long matriculation examinations were ambushed by armed individuals between Tingpibung and Leplen, exposing them to life-threatening violence.
- April 7, 2026 – Fresh firing incident: Students near Indira Gandhi Hill Flower School were again allegedly subjected to firing while returning from classes, raising further alarm over their safety.
#Manipur : 8-04-2026 Kuki Civilians were attacked by NSCN-IM militants on the Leplen-Tingpibung Road causing panic among innocent children and civilians. The incident raises serious concerns about safety and highlights the urgent need for authorities to ensure secure movement &… pic.twitter.com/FXvNZnHrvE
— Neng Khongsai KUKI (@KhongsaiChanu) April 8, 2026
The organisation criticised authorities for what it termed “nothing but silence — no action, no assurance,” questioning how many more such incidents must occur before decisive intervention. It alleged that inaction has emboldened perpetrators and left students vulnerable.
Demands for Action
The KSO has called for immediate steps, including ensuring the safety of all schools and students, removing any militant presence near educational institutions, and taking strict legal action against those responsible. It stressed that children must be guaranteed a safe and secure environment to learn and grow.
The memorandum comes amid ongoing ethnic unrest in Manipur since 2023, involving tensions between Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities, along with reported frictions involving other groups in hill districts. While recent protests in the valley were triggered by a separate attack in Bishnupur, the KSO statement highlights concerns specific to hill areas, particularly regarding student safety.
Reports from recent weeks have pointed to multiple firing incidents and ambushes in districts such as Ukhrul and Kangpokpi, with competing allegations from different communities. Security forces remain deployed across sensitive areas, though concerns over protection and neutrality persist.
Authorities have not issued a detailed response to the KSO memorandum as of April 9. However, the state has stepped up security measures in several regions, including handing over the Bishnupur case to the National Investigation Agency.
With curfews, internet restrictions, and heightened vigil in place, the situation remains tense. The KSO’s appeal underscores the continuing impact of the conflict on education and the safety of children, with calls growing for urgent and effective intervention.
