Many condemn arrest of editors, FIR against Meira Paibis
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, January 08 2024:
The Janata Dal (United), Manipur State Unit has strongly condemned the arrest of two editors namely Wangkhemcha Shamjai, Chief Editor, Kangleipakki Meira, an evening daily, and Maibam Dhanabir, Editor of Hueiyen Lanpao, local Manipuri daily on various charges under Indian Penal Code.
In a release, JD(U) said that such acts of the State against the media persons is against the freedom of speech and expression guaranteed by Article 19 of the Constitution of India and it warrants condemnation at the highest terms.
The Party asserted that for a meaningful and vibrant democracy to flourish in any place, it is necessary that the media plays its role freely to apprise the Government and people alike of the failures and shortcomings so that there is correction of the policies and programmes of Government.
"Media is a bridge between the Government and people, it is named as the fourth pillar of democracy", it added.
JD(U) continued that without a functioning media, which is the watchdog of the people, it is inconceivable to see a true democracy at work.
Vehemently denouncing the recent action of intimidating and arresting important media persons in Manipur, JD(U) appealed to the State Government to exercise restraint in dealing with media persons in the interest of democracy in the State in future.
Similarly, the Communist Party of India, Manipur State Council also condemned the arrest of editors of local dailies recently by the State Police and added that their arrest is an insult to the very fabric of democracy.
In a release, CPI/MSC said that Maibam Dhanabir was arrested on January 5 and earlier Hemantakumar Ningomba and Wangkhemcha Shamjai were also arrested on various charges.
Denouncing the recent trend of arresting prominent journalists of Manipur by the Government, CPI asked, "What have they really done to warrant the arrest?" .
CPI further urged the Government to respect the right to freedom of expression and stop targeting journalists & muzzling independent media.
Meanwhile, Imagi Meira has urged the State Government to withdraw the FIR filed against the Meira Paibis for allegedly objecting to deployment/presence of Central forces at Sagang village on January 2 and News .
In a release, Imagi Meira also expressed its concerned over the declining press freedom in the State and urged the Government to stop filing FIR against news editors for writing anything critical or speaking out.
Conveying disappointment over the failure of the Government to end the conflict even after 9 months, Imagi Meira said that the Government should focus on finding ways to end the conflict at the earliest and restoring peace & normalcy in Manipur.
Imagi Meira further urged the Government to take necessary steps to protect the meira paibis and media persons who have made numerous contributions & sacrifices for Manipur over the years.