Journalists staged a protest at Keishampat Leimajam Leikai in the heart of Imphal, condemning an attempt on the life of senior journalist Khoirom Loyalakpa, Editor of the local Manipuri vernacular daily Naharolgi Thoudang.
According to reports, unidentified armed miscreants opened fire at the vehicle of Loyalakpa and physically assaulted him near Hatta Cemetery in Imphal East district late Wednesday evening, February 18. He sustained grievous injuries and is currently undergoing treatment at Jawaharlal Nehru Institute of Medical Sciences.
Protesters displayed placards reading “Poaomeeda Aki Akhang Peeba Taouganu” and “Paomeeda Khut Thaba Yaningde,” voicing strong condemnation of the attack. The demonstration was organised by the All Manipur Working Journalists’ Union and the Editors’ Guild Manipur.
Representatives of the two media bodies also submitted a memorandum to the Chief Minister’s Office seeking urgent intervention. In the memorandum, they denounced the February 18 incident as a grave threat to press freedom and stated that the attack was not an isolated case. They noted that Loyalakpa and several other journalists in the state had previously faced threats and intimidation, which they said undermine democratic values and freedom of expression.
The unions recalled that earlier representations had been submitted to the Director General of Police, Manipur, urging authorities to ensure a secure working environment for media professionals. However, they alleged that no effective deterrent measures had been put in place.
The memorandum demanded immediate and time-bound registration of an FIR, a swift and transparent investigation to identify and prosecute those responsible, and the implementation of comprehensive safety protocols for journalists across the state. It also called for periodic consultations between the government and journalists’ associations to address ongoing security concerns.
Meanwhile, police said an FIR bearing No. 45(02)2026 PRT-PS has been registered under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, and Section 25(1-B) of the Arms Act, 1959 in connection with the incident.
The invoked sections relate to allegations of wrongful restraint, assault, attempt to commit an offence, damage to property, and illegal use of firearms.
Officials added that investigations are underway to identify and apprehend the accused.
According to Loyalakpa, unidentified miscreants allegedly opened fire at his vehicle on February 18, shattering its windowpanes before physically assaulting him.
He said the attackers struck him with the butt of a gun, resulting in a fractured jaw. Amid the commotion, the assailants fled the scene.
The senior journalist is currently undergoing treatment at the Jawaharlal Nehru Institute of Medical Sciences (JNIMS), Imphal, where his condition is reported to be stable.
Sources informed that this was not the first time Loyalakpa had faced such attacks, as similar incidents were reportedly carried out against him in the past.
The motive behind the latest assault remains unclear as the probe continues.
A team of AMWJU also visited the injured editor at his residence to express solidarity and assess his condition.
