Guwahati: The Manipur Commission for Protection of Child Rights (MCPCR) has ordered an immediate inquiry into the condition of the Eklavya Model Residential School (EMRS) at Zeikhuluang Loktak Project following allegations of food shortages and inadequate care for students.
Taking suo motu cognisance of the matter under Section 14 of the Commission for Protection of Child Rights Act, 2005, the Commission directed the Deputy Commissioner of Churachandpur and the Director of Tribal Affairs and Hills to conduct a detailed investigation into the reported lapses.
According to the MCPCR, preliminary findings indicate that the food supplied to the residential school was insufficient for the actual number of students and staff, resulting in shortages of essential food items. Reports also suggest that hostel residents were unable to receive breakfast on certain days after food stocks were exhausted.
The Commission further noted that some students reportedly required medical treatment due to the situation, while others were taken home by their parents over concerns about their health, nutrition and overall welfare.
Calling the matter a serious violation of children’s rights, the MCPCR directed the concerned authorities to immediately inspect the school and ensure the availability of adequate food, healthcare, safe drinking water, accommodation and other essential facilities for all resident students.
It also instructed officials to verify whether food allocations matched the actual student and staff strength, identify the reasons behind the reported shortages, fix responsibility for any negligence or administrative lapses, and take appropriate corrective action.
The Deputy Commissioner and the Director of Tribal Affairs and Hills have been asked to submit a detailed factual report along with an Action Taken Report (ATR) within 48 hours.
The Commission further directed that students who had left the hostel should return only after authorities restore a safe environment, adequate essential services and an effective management system.
Copies of the order have also been forwarded to the Director of Social Welfare, the Superintendents of Police of Churachandpur and Bishnupur, and other concerned officials to ensure coordinated action.