In a concerning development for press freedom in Manipur, veteran journalist Yambem Laba was reportedly abducted from his residence by a group of armed men in the early hours of Tuesday. His abduction was allegedly linked to comments he made during a media discussion, where he referred to a militant group as a “surrendered group.”
Laba was later released after issuing an apology and retracting his statement regarding the United National Liberation Front (UNLF-Pambei faction), a banned insurgent group that recently signed a ceasefire agreement with the Indian government.
Details of the Abduction
According to reports, a group of armed men arrived at Laba’s home in Uripok, Imphal West district, at approximately 3 AM on Tuesday. They allegedly took him away forcibly following remarks he had made during a televised discussion the previous evening.
Laba’s comments centered around the ongoing political developments in Manipur, particularly in the wake of Chief Minister N. Biren Singh’s resignation controversy. During the discussion, he referred to UNLF-Pambei (UNLF-P)—a militant outfit that signed a ceasefire agreement on November 29, 2023—as a “surrendered group.”
This remark reportedly provoked a strong response from members of the outfit, leading to his alleged abduction.
Laba’s Apology and Release
Later in the day, Laba appeared at a press conference from an undisclosed location, where he publicly retracted his earlier statement. “I made a mistake by referring to the UNLF as a surrendered group. I withdraw that statement,” he said.
He further clarified that the armed individuals who had come to his residence earlier were not necessarily from the UNLF-Pambei faction, adding: “I also apologize for alleging that armed individuals who previously came to my residence were from the UNLF (Pambei) group. They never identified themselves as such.”
His apology seemed to be a condition for his safe release, underscoring the intimidation tactics faced by journalists in conflict zones.
Background: UNLF-Pambei and the Ceasefire Agreement
The United National Liberation Front (UNLF-P), led by Kh Pambei, is a militant outfit operating in Manipur’s Imphal Valley. The group recently renounced violence and entered into peace talks with the Indian government.
The ceasefire agreement, signed in November 2023, was a significant step in the region’s conflict resolution process. However, tensions remain high, particularly among those who perceive the peace agreement as a surrender rather than a negotiation.
Laba’s abduction highlights the sensitivity of political and militant discussions in Manipur, where insurgency-related issues remain deeply contentious.
Impact on Press Freedom in Manipur
The incident raises serious concerns about journalistic freedom and security in conflict-ridden Manipur. This forced retraction and apology set a dangerous precedent, where reporters and media professionals may self-censor to avoid retaliation from militant groups or other powerful entities.
Instances of threats, abductions, and intimidation of journalists have been documented in northeastern India, especially in states with a history of insurgency and armed conflict.
Media organizations and press freedom advocates have called for:
- An independent investigation into the abduction.
- Stronger protection for journalists working in volatile regions.
- Government intervention to ensure press freedom is upheld.
In response to the incident, national and international journalist bodies are likely to issue statements urging the Manipur government to safeguard media professionals from coercion and violence.
The alleged abduction and subsequent release of journalist Yambem Laba serve as a stark reminder of the volatile political landscape in Manipur and the challenges faced by journalists in reporting sensitive issues.
As authorities investigate the incident, it remains to be seen whether press freedom protections will be strengthened to prevent such occurrences in the future. The case also underscores the delicate balance between security concerns, peace talks, and journalistic integrity in regions affected by insurgency.
