Journalist Khelen, social worker Iboyaima remembered
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, October 28 2022: The Khelen Thokchom Trust observed the 62nd birth anniversary of late senior journalist Khelen Thokchom at Manipur Press Club, here, on Friday.

The observance began with offering of floral tribute to the photo of the deceased journalist.

Speaking on the occasion, All Manipur Working Journalists' Union (AMWJU) president Wangkhemcha Shamjai, while stressing on the need for thorough investigation into issues of public interest instead of scouting for report on the request or approach by the people, described as unfortunate that there is significant decline in investigative reporting in the state.

Pointing out that journalists have to critically analyse the different forces affecting the society and work ethically for bringing the society on the right path, Shamjai praised Khelen Thokchom as a journalist who focused more on investigative journalism and also shared his experiences with young journos.

His untimely demise is a huge loss for the state and journalist fraternity in particular, the president said while commending the initiative of the trust in providing fellowship to journalists on different topics.

In his address, Trust advisor Irengbam Arun recounted that Khelen had the ability to make friends with everyone.

As a journalist he had the quality which could make people not to hesitate from giving information, he continued and expressed his desire to possess such quality among the young journalist.

Arun also confided that the trust is keen to publish Khelen's works in a book form.

As a part of the observance, Sanaleibak daily senior reporter Taorem Biswajit was declared selected for the Khelen Thokchom Media Fellow (KTMF)-2022-23 and felicitated KTMF 2021-22 media fellow Naharol Thoudang reporter Huidrom Ronibala.

The observance was also attended by Editors' Guild Manipur president Khogendra Khomdram and Trust founder Thokchom Memcha as presidium members.

On the other-hand, in connection with the 6th death anniversary of 'father of social work' Pabung Iboyaima; Pabung Iboyaima Memorial Trust organised a one-day discussion programme on 'The Thought and Concept of Pabung Iboyaima in Contemporary Society of Manipur' at Singjamei Parking community hall on Friday.

The observance was attended by Trust convenor Khunjanmayum Gopen; Poirei Leimarol Meira Paibi Apunba Manipur president Longjam Memchoubi; All Manipur United Clubs' Organisation president Pheiroijam Nando Luwang; Committee on Human Rights chairman Phunindro Konsam; National Research Centre president Thongam Ajit; All Manipur Women's Voluntary Association president Yumkhaibam Kunjarani; All Manipur Ethnical Socio Cultural Organisation vice president W Chinglemba; and Manipuri Students' Federation (MSF) president Maibam Julesh Khuman as presidium members.

Speaking on the occasion, Trust convenor Khun-jamayum Gopen recounted the contributions made by Pabung Iboyaima even after attaining 100 years of age, including standing up for what is right and for the weaker sections, particularly women and children.

Gopen then said that we must never lose hope in the face of adversary, while inviting suggestions from the people for resolving issues and help in making the state self-sustainable.

As part of the observance, floral tributes were offered to the portrait of Pabung Iboyaima.

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