Source: Hueiyen News Service /MIT
New Delhi, September 19, 2009:
A government school in Thoubal district was set on fire by suspected strike supporters last night around 11 pm, an hour ahead of the commencement of the 60-hour statewide general strike called by the Apunba Lup as part of its ongoing agitation demanding resignation of the Chief Minister, O Ibobi among others.
Some unknown persons set on fire Kakching Khunou High School under Waikhong police station of Thoubal district last night.
Police suspect that the arson could be a part of the ongoing class boycott stir called by two student bodies, All Manipur Students' Union (AMSU) and Manipuri Students' Federation (MSF).
Defying the class boycott, teachers of the school had reportedly conducted class on Thursday last in response to the order of the state Education Commissioner who instructed teachers to attend and take class.
Volunteers of striking bodies have reportedly warned the school authorities and students of defying the class boycott stir on that day when they witnessed the conduct of the class.
A day after the event, the burning down of the school took place.
In the arson, a common room and computer room of the school have been totally razed to grown before fire brigade and villagers rushed to put the fire under control.