Manipur journalists express concern over attacks on media persons

IMPHAL — All Manipur Working Journalists’ Union (AMWJU), Manipur Hill Journalists Union (MHJU) and Editors’ Guild Manipur (EGM) have urged the state government to launch a thorough and impartial investigation into the recent attack at the residence of an editor of a local vernacular daily.

In a joint memorandum to the Security Advisor to the Chief Minister of Manipur, the presidents of AMWJU, MHJU and EGM said, “We are writing to express our grave concern regarding the recent attacks on media personnel in Manipur, particularly the assault on editor Khoirom Loya and others.”

Stating that the increasing threat and violence against media professionals pose a significant threat to press freedom and democratic fabric of the society, the joint memorandum demanded the perpetrators of the heinous acts be identified and brought to justice.

Urging enhancement of security for journalists and media houses operating in Imphal area, the memorandum maintained that it is imperative to ensure media professionals carry out their work without fear of violence or intimidation.

“We also recommend the implementation of protective measures such as surveillance systems around media offices and residences of journalists to deter potential threats," it stated.

Unidentified miscreants fired several rounds at the residence of editor Khoirom Loyalakpa of vernacular daily Naharolgi Thoudang, around 12.30 am on July 16.

The editor was not in his house when the incident took place.

The reason behind the incident is not known yet. No armed group or individual has claimed responsibility for the firing incident till the time of filing of this report.