Manipur Journalists Strike Over Hijacking and Destruction of Rs 30 Lakh Worth of Newsprint in Kangpokpi

Imphal, August 9: Journalists across Manipur initiated a cease-work strike on Friday to protest the recent hijacking and burning of an Imphal-bound truck carrying newsprint reels worth approximately Rs 30 lakh in Kangpokpi District. The incident, which occurred in the Motbung area, involved unidentified miscreants who intercepted the truck and set the materials ablaze.

In response, the All Manipur Working Journalists’ Union (AMWJU) and the Editors Guild, Manipur (EGM), held an emergency meeting at the Manipur Press Club on Thursday. During the meeting, it was decided to cease the operation of both print and electronic media and launch an agitation. The media bodies are demanding that the State Government, Security Advisor, and DGP of Manipur take responsibility for the incident, which has significantly disrupted the press’s ability to operate.

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AMWJU and EGM have consistently urged the authorities to ensure the safe transportation of printing materials along the National Highways (Imphal-Jiribam and Imphal-Dimapur roads), particularly during the ongoing crisis. Despite these appeals, the authorities have been unable to prevent illegal taxation and attacks by miscreants along these routes. The media organizations are now demanding compensation for the destroyed newsprint materials.

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The issue was also raised in the Manipur Legislative Assembly on Thursday during the zero hour. Keishamthong MLA Nishikant Sapam strongly condemned the hijacking, stating that the destruction of newsprint undermines government efforts to restore peace in the state. Citing the truck driver’s account, he alleged the involvement of KNF cadres in the incident and criticized the Kangpokpi District SP for failing to respond to calls for help from the Transporters Union. The MLA urged the House Speaker to instruct the DG to investigate the SP’s lack of action and appealed for the recovery of the 33 newsprint reels.

In contrast, the MLA praised the Naga Traders Union for ensuring the free movement of goods on national highways. He called for joint efforts to safeguard Manipur’s integrity and prevent internal conflicts.

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