Rajya Sabha MP Maharaja Sanajaoba Leishemba wrote a letter to the Governor of Manipur, Ajay Kumar Bhalla, expressing serious concern over an incident involving a group of journalists travelling to Ukhrul. The memorandum referred to an alleged obstruction that took place on the morning of May 20, 2025, at Gwattabi village, en route to the hill district.
According to the MP, the journalists were travelling on a Manipur State Transport (MST) bus, under a state-sponsored initiative, to cover the 5th Shirui Lily Festival. However, they were reportedly stopped by security personnel, believed to be from the Mahar Regiment, who demanded the removal of the word “Manipur” from the bus signage if the team wished to proceed further. The team was allegedly compelled to return to Imphal without covering the event.
Terming the incident as “unheard of,” the MP expressed dismay over what he described as a deeply troubling attitude on the part of the defence personnel involved. He highlighted that such actions erode the trust civilians place in the security forces and raised concerns about the broader implications for press freedom, stating that journalists represent the “fourth pillar of democracy.”
The memorandum questioned whether travelling on a state-run bus bearing the name “Manipur State Transport” could be considered unlawful within the state itself. It also raised concerns about whether the army personnel acted independently or under administrative instruction. The MP urged for a thorough investigation to establish accountability, warning that failure to address the issue could undermine public confidence in the current government.
In view of the prolonged conflict in the state, now entering its second year, the MP urged security forces and law enforcement agencies to exercise restraint and uphold fairness and justice. He called on the administration to ensure that such incidents do not recur and that any wrongdoing is addressed with appropriate and exemplary action.
He further expressed hope that the Governor, with his vast bureaucratic experience, would steer the administration towards restoring peace and public confidence in Manipur.