Imphal, May 24, 2025, Virthli (ONP): Rajya Sabha MP Maharaja Sanajaoba Leishemba has written to Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla expressing strong concern over a recent incident where a group of journalists was reportedly stopped by army personnel while en route to cover the Shirui Lily Festival in Ukhrul district.
In the letter dated May 24, the MP described the May 20 incident as “very unfortunate,” stating that the journalists - who were traveling on a Manipur State Transport bus sponsored by the State Government - were stopped at Gwaltabi village and instructed to remove the word “Manipur” from the bus signage if they wished to proceed. Upon refusal, they were allegedly turned back to Imphal, effectively preventing their coverage of the 5th Shirui Lily Festival.
Sanajaoba condemned the conduct of the army personnel, calling it an “unheard kind of attitude” that shattered public trust and undermined the role of journalists, whom he described as the “fourth pillar of democracy.” He questioned the legality of such interference, asking whether it is “illegal to travel on a state bus with the sign ‘Manipur State Transport’ by journalists” and why there would be objection to using the word “Manipur” within the state itself.
Calling the actions of the personnel - reportedly from the Mahar Regiment - “bizarre” and “blatant carelessness,” Sanajaoba urged the Governor to ensure accountability. He stated that whether the personnel acted on their own or under instruction from administrative authorities must be clarified through a thorough investigation.
In the second part of the letter, Sanajaoba appealed for restraint and fairness from security agencies, particularly at a time when Manipur is “gradually inching towards normalcy” after two years of conflict. He emphasized the need for a healing touch and warned that any perception of bias or suppression could undermine public confidence.
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He concluded by expressing hope that the wrongdoers will be traced and exemplary action taken to prevent future incidents.
The letter was also copied to the Chief Secretary, Security Advisor, and Director General of Police, Government of Manipur.
