Why Are Journalists in Manipur Protesting the Government’s Silence on the Gwaltabi Incident?
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Synopsis
In a striking display of unity, journalists in Manipur rallied against government inaction concerning the Gwaltabi incident. This protest underscores the vital role of media freedom and accountability in governance. As tensions rise, the demand for transparency grows louder.
Key Takeaways
- Journalists united in protest.
- Demand for government accountability.
- Security personnel's actions questioned.
- Significant protests escalate in Imphal valley.
- Inquiry committee formed by the government.
Imphal, July 7 (NationPress) Journalists in Manipur, representing multiple media organizations, came together on Monday to voice their opposition to the government’s inaction regarding the May 20 Gwaltabi incident. During this event, security personnel allegedly instructed a bus carrying journalists to conceal the "Manipur State Transport Corporation" sign.
The demonstration was organized by the All Manipur Working Journalists Union (AMWJU) and the Editors Guild Manipur (EGM), with a significant number of journalists gathering to protest the government’s indifference towards the May 20 incident.
Participants held banners and placards, chanting slogans as they gathered at Keisampat Leimajam Leikai in the Imphal West district.
President of EGM, Khogendro Khomdram, mentioned that a committee formed to investigate the May 20 incident had submitted its report to Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla. He stated, “It has been 47 days, and we remain unaware of the government’s response to the report. We demand stringent action from the state government.”
The incident has sparked widespread protests and unrest across five districts in the Imphal valley over several days. A media team on its way to cover the opening ceremony of the five-day Shirui Lily Festival in Ukhrul district was reportedly forced to return to Imphal after security personnel obstructed their bus at Gwaltabi in the Imphal East district.
In a joint letter to the Governor, the AMWJU and EGM stated that security personnel ordered the media team to hide the "Manipur State Transport Corporation" signage on the bus that was carrying 20 journalists along with some officials from the Information Department.
In response to the incident, the AMWJU and EGM conducted a “pen down” protest for several days, denouncing the disrespectful conduct of security personnel towards the media and the people of Manipur.
The government of Manipur has also set up a two-member inquiry committee to investigate the matter. This committee includes the Commissioner of Home, N. Ashok Kumar, and Information Technology Secretary Kirankumar Singh.
The committee is tasked with examining any lapses and recommending measures to prevent similar occurrences in the future, as noted by state Chief Secretary Prashant Kumar Singh.
Condemning the reported removal of the word “Manipur” from the state transport bus, the Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI) Convenor Khuraijam Athouba demanded a formal apology from Governor Bhalla.
This prominent Meitei community organization has also called for the immediate resignation of Security Advisor Kuldeep Singh, Chief Secretary, and Director General of Police Rajiv Singh, citing their failure to uphold the dignity and integrity of Manipur.
The opposition party, Congress, along with its Lok Sabha member Angomcha Bimol Akoijam, BJP’s Rajya Sabha member from Manipur Maharaja Sanajaoba Leishemba, former Chief Minister N. Biren Singh, and numerous other leaders and organizations have protested against the incident.
In light of the five-day-long Shirui Lily Festival from May 20 to 24, the Manipur government has implemented significant security measures due to reported threats against the Meitei community regarding entry into Kuki tribal-dominated areas during the festival.
Point of View
I recognize the critical importance of journalist rights and government accountability. The protests in Manipur highlight the need for open dialogue between authorities and media professionals. Upholding freedom of expression is essential for a healthy democracy, and it is imperative that the government addresses these concerns promptly.
NationPress
25/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the Gwaltabi incident?
The Gwaltabi incident refers to an event on May 20 where security personnel allegedly instructed journalists to hide the 'Manipur State Transport Corporation' signage on their bus.
Why are journalists protesting?
Journalists are protesting against the government's silence and perceived inaction regarding the Gwaltabi incident, demanding accountability.
Who organized the protests?
The protests were organized by the All Manipur Working Journalists Union (AMWJU) and the Editors Guild Manipur (EGM).
What actions have been taken by the government?
The Manipur government has formed a two-member inquiry committee to investigate the incident and recommend measures to prevent future occurrences.
What are the demands of the protesting journalists?
Protesting journalists are demanding strict action from the government in response to the inquiry committee's findings and an acknowledgment of the incident.
