Students allege hunger, starvation at Eklavya Residential School in Manipur over food shortage; Principal transferred

Allegations of hunger and food shortages at the Eklavya Model Residential School (EMRS) at Zeikhuluang Loktak Project in Manipur have triggered administrative action, with the school's principal being removed from his post, on August 3 after reports emerged that students were allegedly going without adequate food.

Students at the residential school have reportedly been facing severe shortages of food and other basic necessities, prompting calls for urgent intervention by the government and the concerned authorities.
 

According to reports, conditions at the school had become critical due to an inadequate supply of food, with several students allegedly going hungry and some breaking down in tears because of the lack of proper meals. Videos circulating on social media also purportedly showed students being admitted to hospital after complaining of weakness.
 

The school, established under the Eklavya Model Residential School (EMRS) scheme to provide quality education and residential facilities to tribal students, is now facing allegations of failing to meet the basic needs of its students.
 

Amid mounting concerns, the Manipur Society for Tribal Educational Institution (MSTEI) under the Tribal Affairs and Hills Department issued an office order on August 3, relieving the Principal of EMRS Loktak of his charge with immediate effect.
 

According to the order, issued with the approval of the competent authority, the principal has been transferred and attached to the office of the Member Secretary, MSTEI, until further orders. The order states that it supersedes all previous instructions issued in this regard.
 

The development comes amid growing concern over the reported lack of food and other essential facilities at the school. Those raising the issue have urged the Tribal Affairs and Hills Department, school authorities and other concerned agencies to conduct a thorough inquiry into the allegations and ensure that students have access to adequate food, healthcare, accommodation and other basic necessities.
 

They have also called for immediate corrective measures to safeguard the health, welfare and dignity of the students and prevent a recurrence of such incidents.