Scribes appeal
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, July 22 2024: Concerned with recent attacks on media personnel in the State, top media bodies including the All Manipur Working Journalists' Union (AMWJU), Editors' Guild Manipur (EGM) and Manipur Hill Journalists Union (MHJU) have requested Security Advisor Kuldeip Singh for security coverage for media houses and journalists.

In a memorandum submitted to the Security Advisor, the media bodies said increasing threats and violence against media professionals pose a significant threat to press freedom.

"We are writing to express our grave concern regarding the recent attacks on media personnel in Manipur, particularly the assault on Khirom Loya...

The increasing threats and violence against media professionals pose a significant threat to press freedom and the democratic fabric of our society," said the bodies.

Notably, Naharolgi Thoudang Editor Khoirom Loyalakpa's residence at Kontha Khabam Laiharaobam was fired upon by unknown gunmen on the intervening night of July 15 and 16 .

The incidents of violent attacks and intimidation against media personnel are alarming and unacceptable as it undermines the freedom of press and the right of the journalists to perform their duties without fear, said the media bodies, urging for a thorough and impartial investigation into the recent on Editor Kh Loyalakpa.

The perpetrators of these heinous acts must be identified and brought to justice swiftly, they added.

The media bodies also appealed to the Security Advisor to enhance security coverage for media houses and journalists operating in the Imphal area.

It is imperative to ensure that media professionals can carry out their work without fear of violence or intimidation, they said.

The bodies recommended implementation of protective measures such as surveillance systems around media offices and residences of journalists to deter potential threats.

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