It may be a legitimate but the unfortunate to us is the story which was never told. Regarding the reservation system in the selection process of MA, MSc, MCom, Manipur University seems deceived the young students who seeks for higher education in the state. The row between the SC & OBC students and ST regarding the matter is the repercussion of the implementation of Sixth Schedule in the state. But from a reliable source, Manipur is never been a Sixth Schedule state. Even the Schedule is implemented in the State, it should be in the hilly area of the state. For further clarification we welcome the proof (published in the Gazette of India) saying/stating that Manipur as a whole is under Sixth Schedule. The years long row between the two group churned out an alternative arrangement to douse the issue but even after establishment of Tribal University (alternative arrangement) in the state, ST still demands for 31% seat reservation in entrance test to pursue Master degree. We will never objected in the implementation of Sixth Schedule in the University entrance test if the versity exists in tribal dominant area or Schedule area but after achieving their first step they approach for second step targeting Manipur University, the highest degree institution in the state. There is a chance of implementing the same in Central University of Agriculture, Eroisemba if their mission accomplished. This is the issue of larger section of society and such social issue should be support by the public and valley based social organizations.
It is of no personal interest and the faith of our young students depends on this struggle. The appeal to the society is to understand the Sixth Schedule, inclusion of Manipur in Sixth Schedule and state reservation norm in a Central University.
General Secy,
Yengkhom Rajiv Singh
Manipur University SC and OBC Students’ Union
