Students, teachers appeal to militants

The appeal was made during a seminar 'Free Education from Disturbances' by different students organisations at Manipur university.

Speaking on the occasion, Democratic Students Alliance Manipur vice-president M Angamba said the education sector in the state was affected and disturbed by various anti-social elements.

"Even the revolutionary groups (meaning insurgent outfits) pose serious threats. Extortion of money from schools and other education institutions is a serious offence against quality education", he said.

Extortion from educational institutions resulted in frequent closure of schools and colleges seriously affecting the academic careers of students. "Even Maoists give utmost priority to education", he said.

Dean of the School of Human and Environmental Sciences of Manipur University, W Naba Kumar said students, teachers and guardians should create a disturbance-free education atmosphere in the state and the government should make a firm commitment to bring real change through education.