Senapati, August 31: The Laii (Vafiimai) Village Authority (VA) has expressed deep regret over the incident involving Hornbill TV reporter Dip Saikia during the Zinnia Festival in Senapati District, calling it “deeply concerning” and inconsistent with the community’s peace-loving and hospitable spirit.
In a statement, the authority said the individual responsible for the incident has been identified and was not a resident of Laii but a visiting tourist. The VA noted that possession of air guns and hunting are strictly prohibited under local regulations. The shooting occurred roughly three kilometers south of the festival grounds, within village jurisdiction.
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According to the VA, the accused admitted firing an air gun in an attempt to shoot a bird and claimed he was unaware of the victim’s presence at the time.
The Laii authority clarified that the people of the village had no role in the episode and denounced media reports that, it said, unfairly tarnished the community’s image.
“Such reporting is misleading, unfair, and damaging to the reputation of a community that has always been peace-loving and hospitable,” the statement read, urging media outlets to verify facts before publication.
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The Village Authority added that it stands in solidarity with the victim, extended wishes for his recovery, and pledged full cooperation with the authorities to ensure justice. It also offered apologies to visitors for the distress caused and reaffirmed its commitment to providing a safe and welcoming environment.