Guild expresses concern over threat to Editor
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, March 01 2015: A meeting of the Editors' Guild, Manipur (EGM) held at the residence of Khoirom Loyalakpa, Editor of Naharolgi Thoudang, on February 28, discussed the constant threat meted out to the latter by some unknown persons in the past two weeks.

A statement issued by EGM secretary general said that it is clear from the facts provided by the Editor that the threat was made by some individuals and not by any armed group as suspected earlier.

It is also suspected that the threat was made in order to suppress publication of a certain news item, the statement added.

Condemning the incident, the statement said that EGM considers the threat as an infringement on the "right to expression" of the media.

Members of Editors' Guild, Manipur in a show of solidarity to Loyalakpa decided to appeal the State Home Department to provide personal security to the Editor till the threat subsides.

This is in addition to the static guards being provided to him at his residence, the statement added.

It further said that EGM has also met the Investigating Officer of the case, Victor and urged him to speed up investigation and book the involved persons as soon as possible so that the media in general and Loyalakpa in particular can discharge their duties in a free and fearless manner.

EGM also drew the attention of the Chief Minister and the Deputy Chief Minister regarding the prevailing insecure environment where media persons are working urging the Government to take serious note of the threat on Loyalakpa.

The statement said that EGM is not satisfied with the security measures taken up by the Government for the protection of media persons in the State.

On the other hand, EGM thanked all the organisations which have extended support to Loyalakpa and the media.

EGM further urged these organisations to continue the same in future as well.

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