The Manipur Commission for Protection of Child Rights (MCPCR) has directed the Deputy Commissioner of Churachandpur and the Director of Tribal Affairs & Hills to take immediate action over the reported condition of the Eklavya Model Residential School (EMRS), Zeikhuluang Loktak Project, following allegations of severe shortages of essential supplies affecting resident students.
In a directive issued on Tuesday, MCPCR Chairperson Keisham Pradipkumar said the Commission had taken suo motu cognisance of reports concerning the school under Section 14 of the Commission for Protection of Child Rights Act, 2005.
According to the Commission, preliminary findings indicate that food supplies at the residential school were inadequate in proportion to the actual number of students and staff, leading to shortages of essential food items. The directive further noted that breakfast could not be served on previous days due to depleted food stocks. It added that some students reportedly required medical treatment, while several others were taken home by their parents over concerns about their health, nutrition and well-being.
Describing the matter as one affecting the rights, health, nutrition and dignity of children, the MCPCR directed the district administration and the Tribal Affairs & Hills Department to conduct an immediate on-site inquiry, restore adequate food supplies, healthcare, drinking water, accommodation and other essential services, and verify the reasons behind the reported deficiencies.
The Commission also instructed the authorities to fix responsibility in the event of negligence, initiate appropriate remedial measures, and submit a detailed factual report along with an Action Taken Report (ATR) within 48 hours of receiving the directive.
Further, the authorities have been asked to ensure that evacuated students are safely returned to the institution only after adequate essential services and a reliable management system are put in place.
The MCPCR termed the matter as “MOST URGENT”, stressing that the best interests of the children must remain the paramount consideration. Copies of the directive were also forwarded to the Director of Social Welfare, the Superintendents of Police of Churachandpur and Bishnupur, and the concerned SDO for prompt coordinated intervention.