A Manipuri student pursuing PhD at Mizoram University is reportedly at the risk of facing termination from the University after a video purportedly showing her involvement in collection of funds related to the prevailing unrest in Manipur surfaced on social media on Monday.
As per sources, the caption of the video suspected to be circulated by Kuki propagandists read, “Following the footsteps of the Meitei women militant groups ‘Meira Paibis’ are these so-called educated young Meitei women. Openly instigating to commit another wave of ethnic cleansing of the Kuki people along with the radical group ‘Arambai Tenggol’.”
In the video, the student identified as Teresa Ningthoujam is seen among a group of women interacting with what appears to be Arambai Tenggol members at 31 Unit AT, sources said.
The video further included a translation of her speech about the donation of funds.
Teresa is reportedly pursuing PhD Horticulture Aromatics and Medicinal Plants, Mizoram University. She is a resident at Kumtluang Hostel, sources added.
Meanwhile, acting on the same, Mizo Zirlai Pawl (Mizo Student Association) General Headquarters on Monday wrote to the Registrar, Mizoram University requesting immediate termination of Teresa from PhD Programme at Mizoram University.
MZP Assistant general secretary, C Lalhmingsanga, in a statement, alleged that Teresa was involved in the collection of funds amounting to Rs 20,000 for the procurement of bullets purportedly intended for harming the Kuki people in Manipur. It asserted that such actions are not only morally reprehensible but also goes against the principles of humanity and academic integrity.
It further noted the gravity of this situation and the implications it carries for both her academic pursuits and the reputation of the renowned Mizoram University. It urged to terminate Teresa’s enrolment in the PhD programme with immediate effect given the severity of the allegations against her.
It is imperative to uphold the values of peace, respect for human life, and academic excellence that Mizoram University stands for, the statement mentioned. It added that by taking decisive action in this matter, the association reaffirms its commitment to fostering a safe, inclusive, and ethical learning environment for all students. It also appealed to the Registrar to carefully consider the request and take appropriate measures to address the situation in a manner consistent with the university’s policies and standards of conduct.
It is said that the team of MZP GHQ have reportedly met the Registrar of Mizoram University, wherein they demanded the immediate termination of the student involved. It is also said that the team might file an FIR at Aizawl Police Station regarding the same.
Mention may be made here that in wake of the communal conflict in Manipur on May 2023, Meiteis residing in Mizoram were forced to leave the state for their safety after a former militant group of Mizoram issued a warning on July 2023 to the Meiteis in Mizoram to flee the state as it is no longer safe for them.
