Angry Catholic school students burn text books

IMPHAL, April 24: Irate students of Catholic School, Canchipur gathered at the school gate today and made a bonfire of their school text books in protest against the closure of the school for the last one month. Police were called in and they had to resort to a mild lathi charge to disperse the students. Mission schools located in the valley had closed down for the last one month following monetary demands served on them by an underground outfit. According to reports the students numbering around 500 gathered at the gate of the school at about 9 am and forced open the gate which was kept under lock. The students were all in full school uniforms. The students shouted slogans demanding their right to education and demanded to know what wrong they had done to be deprived of their rights. The students then made a bonfire of their school textbooks to give vent to their frustrations. Sources said some member of Executive body of the School and teachers were present at the time of incident. The teachers tried to pacify the students but the students broke open the gate and made their way into the school campus. Prior to setting textbooks on fire, the students also stoned the school. The students then targeted the school buildings and broke the windowpanes and doors. A police team led by the OC of Singjamei police came to the spot and police officer personally tried to pacify the incensed students. However the efforts of the police officer also came to naught and police had to resort to a lathi charge to bring the situation under control. At least three young students were hurt during the lathi charge. The students had taken a decision on April 22 that students from class VI to X would attend class whether the school authority decide to open the school or not. The students said they would also come to school tomorrow. Meanwhile, Little Flower School which had also remained closed, opened from today. A special prayer was held during the morning assembly today. The special prayer was penned by Rebecca Takhellambam, a class X student. Head Mistress, Sister Mabel thanked all those who had lent their unstinted support and encouragement during the critical days. However, Nirmalabas, Don Bosco School, Chingmeirong and Langjing, St. Joseph's, Sangaiprou and St George are yet to resume normal classes.