The legacy of fearless journalism and the enduring memory of veteran journalist Khelen Thokchom came alive as the Khelen Thokchom Trust observed his 66th birth anniversary at the All Manipur Women’s Association, Purana Rajbari, Nongmeibung, Imphal East.
Born on October 27, 1960, Thokchom was remembered as a journalist whose courage, integrity and commitment to truth left a lasting imprint on Manipur’s media landscape. He passed away on April 1, 2018, after a distinguished career that included serving as the founding editor of The Sangai Express and as a special correspondent for The Telegraph.
The observance brought together members of the Trust, family members, friends and inmates of the association, who offered floral tributes to his portrait in recognition of his contributions to journalism.
Those present on the dais included Thokchom Memcha Devi, donor to the Trust; senior journalist Irengbam Arun, adviser to the Trust; K. Priyoshakhi, treasurer of the All Manipur Women’s Association; and Ksh. Umesh, former councillor of Imphal Municipal Corporation Ward No. 21.
Established and registered in 2018 in his memory, the Khelen Thokchom Trust has sought to carry forward his journalistic ideals by promoting excellence in regional journalism. Its annual media fellowship assignments have provided a platform for journalists to pursue focused reporting. However, the fellowship programme remains suspended following the outbreak of the ongoing conflict in Manipur.
Extending the spirit of remembrance beyond words, the Trust distributed winter blankets and essential items to the All Manipur Women’s Association for its inmates.
