DIMAPUR, JUNE 24: The editorial managements of newspapers in Nagaland have expressed conviction that the government of Nagaland should recognize its role to ensuring enforcement measures that provide peace and security and, in this context, a safe working environment for journalists.
The editors of The Morung Express, the Eastern Mirror, and vernaculars the Capi and the Tir Yimyim issued a jointly-appended letter on Friday following Thursday’s reported firing near the office of English daily Nagaland Post.
“We the editors of Nagaland-based newspaper are deeply concerned and disturbed to hear that unidentified person(s) fired a shot near the gate of Nagaland Post at around 9:02 pm on the night of June 23, 2016,” the letter stated.
“While we are confident that the police will earnestly investigate and pursue all possible means to unearth the roots of the incident, we emphasize the need for the government of Nagaland to take appropriate measures to ensure public security and create a safe environment for all. The values and principles of the Freedom of the Press are invariably interrelated with the safety and well-being of the public.”
Any attempt to browbeat Freedom of the Press will undermine the democratic foundation and practices of democratic communities, the editors stated.
“Any attempt to coerce, threaten or obstruct the voices of the Freedom of the Press will only undermine the democratic foundations and practices of the society. Hence, the editors believe the government of Nagaland will take all necessary steps to make certain and provide safe working environment for journalists.”
The letter was appended by The Morung Express’ Editor Akum Longchari, Eastern Mirror’s Editor K Wapong Longkumer, Capi’s Editor M Kire, and Tir Yimyim’s Editor K Temjen Jamir.
