The media fraternity and journalists in Imphal today staged a sit-in protest condemning the violent assault on senior journalist and editor of the Meitei daily Naharolgi Thoudang, Khoirom Loyalakpa.
The protest was jointly organised by the All Manipur Working Journalists’ Union (AMWJU) and the Editors’ Guild Manipur (EGM) at Keishampat Leimajam Leikai in Imphal West, drawing a large number of media personnel and supporters who demanded justice and stronger safety measures for journalists.
The sit-in, which began in the morning hours, saw journalists holding placards and raising slogans in defence of press freedom. Protesters described the attack on Loyalakpa as not merely an assault on an individual, but an attack on democracy and freedom of expression.
Representatives of AMWJU and EGM reiterated the need for swift and stringent action against those responsible, asserting that violence against media persons cannot be tolerated in a democratic society.
The protesters also resolved to submit a memorandum to the Chief Minister, urging the government to conduct a thorough investigation into the incident and ensure adequate security for media professionals across the state.
The demonstration followed the ambush of Loyalakpa on the night of February 18 in Imphal East district. According to reports, unidentified armed individuals chased his vehicle near Hatta War Cemetery, opened fire, shattering the window of his car, and physically assaulted him before fleeing the scene.
He was later admitted to the Jawaharlal Nehru Institute of Medical Sciences (JNIMS) for treatment and has since been discharged. He is currently reported to be recovering.
Police have registered a case in connection with the incident, and investigations are underway to identify and apprehend those involved. The motive behind the attack remains unclear.
Journalist bodies have termed the incident a grave threat to press freedom in Manipur and called upon law enforcement agencies to act with urgency to safeguard journalists and uphold constitutional guarantees of free speech and expression.
