Journalists in Manipur held a sit-in protest on Monday, slamming the state government for its silence over the Gwaltabi incident, where media professionals were obstructed from performing their duties.
The protest, led by the All Manipur Working Journalists’ Union (AMWJU) and Editors’ Guild Manipur (EGM), took place at the Manipur Press Club in Imphal.
The protestors demanded immediate action from the state and strong safeguards for press freedom.
Journalists Call for Government Accountability
The journalists raised slogans and displayed placards reading “Stop Attacking Media” and “Free Press is Democracy’s Pillar”.
They accused the government of turning a blind eye to growing threats. Further, restrictions on journalists in conflict-affected areas like Gwaltabi, in Ukhrul district.
“No democracy survives without a free press. But today, journalists are being silenced and harassed,” said AMWJU President Bijoy Kakchingtabam.
The Gwaltabi Incident
The Gwaltabi incident, which occurred earlier this month, involved a group of journalists being blocked by unidentified individuals while they were on assignment in the area.
According to eyewitness accounts, the journalists were stopped from collecting footage. Moreover, threatened with dire consequences if they proceeded.
Despite complaints being lodged, no official response or action has been taken by the Manipur government or security forces.
Editors’ Guild Issues Strong Statement
In a joint press note, AMWJU and EGM condemned the lack of political will to address the issue.
“The silence of the government is deeply disturbing. Moreover, by failing to respond, the administration is indirectly encouraging such undemocratic acts,” the statement read.
They urged Chief Minister N. Biren Singh to break his silence and assure protection for media workers.
Demands Raised
The protesting journalists placed several demands before the government:
- Immediate identification and arrest of those involved in the Gwaltabi incident.
- Issuance of a public statement from the Chief Minister condemning the obstruction.
- Assurance of press freedom and safe access to conflict zones.
- Formation of a grievance redressal mechanism for media personnel.
They also requested the setting up of a special committee to investigate repeated instances of harassment faced by the press in Manipur.
Political and Civil Society Reactions
Several civil society groups expressed solidarity with the journalists.
Human Rights Defender L. Tomba said, “Journalists are the voice of the people. Silencing them is like silencing democracy itself.”
Opposition parties, including the Congress and CPI(M), also criticized the BJP-led government for failing to uphold constitutional rights.
Media Under Pressure in Manipur
In recent months, Manipur has witnessed a spike in incidents where reporters have been denied access to volatile areas, raising concerns about growing media censorship.
Henceforth, press Council of India and national journalist networks have been urged to take note and send fact-finding teams to the state.
As per reports, incidents of harassment and intimidation against the press in Manipur have risen by over 30% since 2023.
A Call for Action
The sit-in concluded with a unanimous resolution: if no government response comes within 72 hours, the media will consider a state-wide news blackout for one day.
“Let this be a wake-up call. We will not be silenced,” said one senior editor from a leading local daily.