Right to life takes priority over education: – Bruce Pebam

All Manipur Students’ Union president Bruce Pebam today stated that the right to life must take precedence over the right to education, while addressing the 46th Realisation Day (Meekap Thokpa Numit) held at the Multipurpose Hall of Manipur College.
The observance began with the hoisting of the AMSU flag at Singjamei Chinga Mathak, followed by floral tributes to student martyrs Potshangbam Premananda and Huidrom Lokendro, who were killed during the AMSU-led “Go Back Foreigner” movement on April 17, 1980. Late, a rally was staged to mark the observance before conducting a public meeting.
Speaking on the occasion, Bruce Pebam said AMSU has consistently placed protection of life above all, noting that education can only be meaningful when the safety of the people is ensured. He recalled that during past movements, including the Sanjit and Rabina killing incidents, the union had resorted to class boycotts as a measure to safeguard students.
He also referred to the anti-foreigner movement period, during which even the Class X examinations were cancelled, underlining the gravity of the situation at the time. Pebam maintained that AMSU does not intend to disrupt academic activities but may adopt such steps as a last resort under compelling circumstances.
On the issue of recent school closures, he said the union remains unclear about the government’s position, adding that there is no confirmed information on whether the closure was officially ordered. He, however, expressed concern that prevailing tensions, including the recent killing of minors in Tronglaobi, could trigger public unrest involving students.
Pebam further stated that there were unverified reports of certain civil society organisations pressuring school authorities to shut down institutions. He also alleged that the Government of India has failed to adequately address the issues facing Manipur, particularly in relation to illegal immigration, and has shown little interest in updating the National Register of Citizens for the state.