Over 31,000 Students Sit for Class XII Exams in Violence-Hit Manipur
In a powerful display of resilience and hope for the future, a total of 31,530 students across violence-affected Manipur appeared for the Higher Secondary Examination 2026, commonly known as Class XII, on Tuesday. The examinations are being conducted by the Council of Higher Secondary Education Manipur (COHSEM) and will continue until March 20, marking a significant academic milestone for the region's youth.
Exam Statistics and Stream-Wise Breakdown
The examinations are taking place across 117 centers strategically distributed throughout the state. Of these centers, 39 are located in the hill districts while 78 are situated in the valley districts, ensuring accessibility for students from diverse geographical areas.
A detailed breakdown of the candidate pool reveals interesting patterns:
- Science stream: 23,146 students
- Arts stream: 7,697 students
- Commerce stream: 687 students
The gender distribution among candidates shows a nearly equal participation with 15,908 male students and 15,622 female students appearing for the crucial examinations.
Special Measures for Displaced Students and Exam Security
In a particularly noteworthy development, 412 internally displaced students who have been affected by the ongoing violence in Manipur are also appearing for the examinations. Their participation underscores the determination of educational authorities to ensure continuity of education despite challenging circumstances.
To ensure the smooth and fair conduct of the examinations, Controller of Examinations Oinam Joy announced that 64 flying squads have been deployed across the state. These squads are tasked with monitoring exam centers and preventing any malpractices.
Additionally, special nodal officers have been assigned specifically for hill districts to closely monitor the examination process and maintain transparency and discipline throughout the proceedings.
Official Appeals and Significance of the Exams
COHSEM Chairperson Takhellambam Ojit Singh described the examinations as a crucial turning point in shaping students' futures. He emphasized the importance of these exams for the academic and professional trajectories of Manipur's youth.
Singh made a heartfelt appeal to parents, civil society organizations, and student bodies to cooperate fully for the fair conduct of the examinations. He specifically urged the public to avoid organizing bandhs, blockades, strikes, or gatherings near examination centers during the entire examination period to ensure an uninterrupted and peaceful environment for students.
Disruption at Wabagai Examination Center
Despite the extensive preparations, the examination faced disruption on the first day at the Wabagai Higher Secondary Examination Center in Kakching district. Candidates at this center protested what they alleged was the denial of additional time for completing their papers.
During the protest, some candidates reportedly snatched answer papers from invigilators and tore them, creating tension at the center. The incident highlights the heightened emotions and pressures surrounding these examinations in the context of Manipur's challenging circumstances.
At the time of reporting, authorities had not issued an official statement regarding this specific incident, leaving questions about how the situation would be addressed and whether affected students would receive any accommodations.
The successful conduct of these examinations represents more than just an academic assessment—it symbolizes hope, normalcy, and future possibilities for Manipur's students who have persevered through difficult times to reach this educational milestone.
