Manipur: Journalist bodies appeal to play role of peacemaker

IMPHAL — Journalist bodies in Manipur namely the Editors’ Guild Manipur (EGM), All Manipur Working (AMWJU) and Manipur Hill Journalists’ Union (MHJU) have appealed to all journalists including those from the local media to be peacemaker rather than trouble maker.

In a joint appeal, EGM, AMWJU and MHJU expressed their desire for the media to play the role of peacemaker.

“If there is any way we as a media organisation can help you achieve that goal, our doors are open and we will try to assist you in any way,” the joint appeal read.

Stating that they have received many feedback from citizens on unbalanced reporting by the media, particularly by the National and international media, it said, “The present conflict in Manipur is complex and simply reducing it to Hindu vs Christian, or tribal vs non-tribal or Meitei will bring irreparable damage to the age-old relationship that people from the valley enjoyed with those from the surrounding hills.”

Expressing that there are forces within both parties in conflict who are trying to bring about a fracture between the two communities for political mileage, personal vendetta and many other factors including the drug trade and turf control, the joint statement said, “We believe it is the duty of the media to expose these people and stop them from making the public fodder of their narrow interests.”

The three bodies appealed to media practitioners from mainland India and abroad to do justice by balancing the stories in connection with the ongoing law and order situation in Manipur.

Meanwhile the MHJU in a separate statement has also appealed to the state government for speedy evacuation process and to enforce relief measures for those affected families from different communities.

The conditions of those stranded in relief camps have worsened due to lack of basic amenities as many have escaped the violence without proper items and belongings, the MHJU said.

Extending solidarity to those affected families and persons in the restive situation, the MHJU has also expressed gratitude to Indian Army and paramilitary forces for providing security to general masses, securing evacuated victims and providing shelter, food and protections during the present crisis. It also thanked the host of philanthropists and organisations involved in relief and evacuation exercises for those victims.