Imphal Times completes 12 years of service tomorrow

Tomorrow, January 9, marks a significant milestone for Imphal Times, as it celebrates its 12th Foundation Day. The same day also holds historical significance, as it commemorates the death anniversary of Maharaja Gambhir Singh, a figure whose legacy continues to inspire the fight for justice, freedom, and resilience.
Imphal Times’ journey over the past 12 years has been nothing short of a battle for the fundamental rights of free speech and press freedom in Manipur. Launched on January 9, 2013, Imphal Times emerged as a voice of truth, an essential platform for highlighting the issues that matter most to the people of Manipur. Its mission was clear: to provide unbiased, in-depth news coverage, investigate social issues, and most importantly, offer a space for public discourse. However, the road has not been easy. The publication has faced numerous challenges, from threats of persecution to defamation cases, and even state-imposed censorship in the form of the withdrawal of government advertisements.
One of the most blatant forms of press suppression the newspaper has encountered has been the withdrawal of advertisements by the government whenever it published stories critical of the ruling establishment. For a media outlet, particularly one that operates in a resource-constrained environment, such a tactic can be devastating, threatening not only the financial stability of the publication but also its very existence. Yet, rather than bowing to these pressures, Imphal Times chose to persist, understanding that the true role of the press is not to appease power but to hold it accountable to the people.
The defamation cases filed against the newspaper have also been a recurring challenge. These legal battles have sought to intimidate and silence the publication for reporting the truth. But Imphal Times has never been deterred. Each lawsuit has only strengthened its resolve to continue the fight for press freedom. The legal and financial burdens placed upon the newspaper by these cases could have easily led to its closure, but instead, it has emerged stronger, more committed to its core mission of serving the people with objective, honest journalism.
The government’s threats and attempts to muzzle the media reflect the wider challenges faced by journalists and media outlets across the world. Press freedom, which is the cornerstone of any democracy, is constantly under threat, whether through direct censorship, economic pressure, or legal harassment. The success of Imphal Times, however, lies in its unwavering commitment to uphold the ideals of free expression and truth, despite these formidable challenges.
Despite the many hurdles, Imphal Times has stayed true to its founding principles, adhering to the path of truth with the resilience of its leadership and editorial team. In doing so, it has honoured the legacies of two great pioneers of Manipuri media: Hijam Irabot, a stalwart of Manipur’s media history, and NK Sanajaoba, the founder of investigative journalism in the state. These individuals, with their courage and dedication, laid the groundwork for the press that we see today, and their ideals continue to guide the work of publications like Imphal Times.
In many ways, the story of Imphal Times is also the story of the people of Manipur. It is a reflection of their struggles, their aspirations, and their unwavering belief in justice. For the people of this state, the paper has become more than just a source of news; it is a platform for voices that would otherwise go unheard. The publication has provided a space for people to express their opinions, to challenge the status quo, and to push for meaningful change in society. The journey of Imphal Times can be described as a long, fought struggle for the freedom of the press—one that is fundamental to the democratic framework of any nation.
As Imphal Times celebrates its 12th Foundation Day, it does so not only in recognition of its own achievements but also in acknowledgment of the collective efforts of the people it serves. This milestone is a testament to the resilience of its team, the support of its readers, and the unwavering spirit of the media community in Manipur.