Kuki Students' Organization Demands UGC-NET Exam Center in Churachandpur Amid Ethnic Conflict

Amid the escalating ethnic tensions in Manipur, the Kuki Students' Organization (KSO), a key representative body for Kuki students, has issued an urgent appeal to the National Testing Agency (NTA) to establish a UGC-NET examination center in Churachandpur District. This request comes ahead of the December 2024 cycle of the exam, slated for January 2025.

In a letter to Dr. Sadhana Parasar, Senior Director (Examination) at the NTA, KSO Education Secretary Thangmoi Haokip underscored the dire circumstances facing candidates. The ongoing ethnic violence has created significant security risks, making travel to the designated examination center in Imphal nearly impossible for many.

“The prolonged ethnic conflict has placed our students in a perilous situation. Traveling to Imphal for the examination is not just inconvenient—it’s unsafe,” Haokip stated. The KSO stressed that Churachandpur, a central and relatively peaceful district, offers a viable and secure alternative, ensuring that students can pursue their education without risking their lives.

The organization emphasized the urgent need for equitable access to educational opportunities, warning that failure to address the issue could exclude many students from participating in the crucial national examination. “A local examination center in Churachandpur is not just a convenience; it’s a necessity in these extraordinary circumstances,” Haokip added.

While acknowledging the logistical complexities of establishing a new examination center, the KSO urged the NTA to act swiftly. They also proposed allowing candidates to update their exam center preference during the correction window starting December 12, 2024, or another applicable date.

The appeal comes at a critical juncture as Manipur continues to grapple with ethnic violence that has disrupted daily life and education across the state. By addressing this demand, the NTA would not only ensure safety but also demonstrate a commitment to inclusivity and equal access for students from conflict-affected areas.

The KSO’s call for action highlights the intersection of education and security, urging authorities to prioritize student welfare and ensure that no aspiring candidate is left behind.