Veteran Manipur journalist Deven Singh dies aged 75

Our Correspondent

Imphal, Sep. 8 (EMN): Nongmaithem Deven Singh, a veteran journalist in Manipur who was popularly known as Khollao Deven, died after a prolonged illness in his ancestral home at Keishampat Leimajam Leikai in Imphal West district. He was 75.

Deven Singh survived by his wife and four daughters.

He joined the Khollao Daily, a popular newspaper published by the CPI Manipur unit in 1969. He was a founding member of All Manipur Working Journalists’ Union (AMWJU) and Manipur Press Club in 1974 and 1975 respectively. He was also the Secretary of CPI Keishamthong Local Committee for several terms after he became a member of CPI in his late sixties.

Deven has also worked for popular vernaculars such as Hueiyen Lanpao, Imphal Free Press, an English daily and Matamgi Yakairol besides taking part in other social and sports movement. He was also an active member of Manipur Olympic Association.

Journalist fraternity of Manipur performed a floral tribute ceremony led by AMWJU President W Shamjai and Editors’ Guild Manipur President Khogendra Khomdram at the Manipur Press Club premises on Thursday.

Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh also condoled the demise of Khollao Deven. In a condolence message, Biren Singh, who is also a former journalist said, “Till his last breath, he worked tirelessly for the cause of the Media fraternity. In his death, out state and the media fraternity have lost an upright journalist. I deeply condole his demise and share grief with the bereaved family.”