Khoiram Loyalakpa, Editor-in-Chief of the vernacular daily Naharolgi Thoudang, was allegedly attacked by unidentified armed assailants, triggering widespread outrage among journalists in Manipur. Media professionals staged a sit-in protest on Friday at Keishampat Leimajam Leikai in Imphal West district, condemning the assault and demanding immediate action.
The protest was jointly organised by the All Manipur Working Journalists’ Union (AMWJU) and the Editors’ Guild of Manipur (EGM). Journalists gathered in large numbers to express solidarity with Loyalakpa and to voice concerns over growing threats to press freedom in the state.
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Media Bodies Call It Assault on Press Freedom
Speaking to reporters during the protest, AMWJU Vice President Sonia Sorensangbam described the attack as deeply disturbing and unacceptable. She termed the incident a direct assault on press freedom and warned that such acts threaten the safety and independence of journalists.
Sorensangbam said the media fraternity would not tolerate violence against journalists. She emphasized the need for strong legal action to prevent similar incidents in the future. According to her, the attack sends a worrying signal about the safety of those working in the field of journalism.
Memorandum to Chief Minister
The protesting journalists announced that they would submit a memorandum to the Chief Minister, demanding swift identification and arrest of those responsible. They urged authorities to ensure a fair and impartial investigation into the incident.
The media bodies called on law enforcement agencies to act without delay and deliver justice at the earliest. They also demanded concrete steps to strengthen security measures for journalists working in sensitive areas.
Details of the Incident
According to reports, unidentified armed assailants opened fire at Loyalakpa’s vehicle late on the night of February 18 before physically assaulting him. The incident took place around 10 pm near Hatta War Cemetery in Imphal East district.
Sources said a vehicle, suspected to be a Maruti Swift, had been following Loyalakpa’s car before intercepting it on the road. The attackers allegedly stopped his vehicle and carried out the assault under the jurisdiction of Porompat Police Station.
Authorities have yet to publicly identify the suspects. Police have reportedly launched an investigation into the incident.
Rising Concerns Over Journalist Safety
The attack has reignited concerns about the safety of journalists in Manipur. Media organizations have stressed that reporters and editors play a critical role in upholding democracy and informing the public. Any attempt to intimidate or silence them undermines democratic values.
Journalists at the protest carried placards condemning violence against media professionals. They demanded that the government ensure a secure environment where journalists can perform their duties without fear.
The incident has also drawn attention to the broader issue of protecting press freedom in conflict-sensitive regions. Media bodies in Manipur have urged authorities to set a strong example by taking strict action against those involved.
Demand for Accountability
The AMWJU and EGM reiterated that the perpetrators must face legal consequences. They emphasized that accountability remains essential to deter future attacks.
As investigations continue, the journalist community in Manipur has vowed to remain united. They have also warned that they may intensify their agitation if authorities fail to deliver justice promptly.
The protest in Imphal underscores growing solidarity among journalists and highlights their determination to safeguard press freedom. With pressure mounting on the administration, the focus now shifts to the investigation and the steps authorities will take to ensure justice for Khoiram Loyalakpa.
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