UKHRUL: The Ukhrul District Working Journalists Association (UDWJA) and the Society for Indigenous Culture and Environment (SICE) observed World Press Freedom Day on Sunday at Ukhrul Press Club, Winotang.
Under the theme “Shaping a future of peace: Promoting press freedom for Human rights, Development and Security,” the event served as both a celebration of the fourth estate and a sobering reflection on the physical and financial perils facing media professionals in Manipur’s hill districts.
The highlight of the observance was an intense interaction hour where participants pivoted from the theory of press freedom to the harsh reality of regional insecurity. A central point of contention was the perceived hypocrisy in national policy regarding terrorism.
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Intellectuals questioned why the Indian government promotes anti-terrorism narratives globally while appearing stagnant regarding militant activities occurring domestically.
Speakers cited the recent shooting of two civilians on National Highway 202, who were traveling from Imphal to Ukhrul, as a definitive act of terrorism.
Discussion focused on the failure of central forces to secure a mere 15-minute stretch of road, leaving civilians vulnerable despite a heavy military presence in the area.
“If civilians cannot be assured security on a short stretch of highway covered by central forces, the definition of security for the common man remains an illusion,” noted one participant during the interaction.
In his welcome address, UDWJA President R. Lester Makang painted a grim picture of the life of a journalist in Ukhrul. Despite having the highest number of working journalists among the Naga districts in Manipur, Makang argued that the fraternity remains weak in reality due to a total lack of resources.
Makang noted that journalists in the region do not earn a living wage, receiving honorariums rather than salaries, which prevents them from living self-reliant lives.
Makang said that anyone will be hesitant if ask weather true freedom of expression is practiced by local media professionals.
Thanmi L.M. Shimray, Chairman SICE, noted that local journalists are often restricted from reporting freely. He emphasized that collective discussion like this is essential for forging a path forward.
During his address, Shimray provided a brief history of the Press and its origins, while highlighting the specific challenges faced by journalists in the region who struggle to report without interference. “We always desire to know when we will truly be able to express our thoughts and needs. Days like this provide a vital opportunity to discuss our challenges and find a better way to move forward. I believe it is both necessary and important that we celebrate this day together,” he said.
The celebration also underscored the absence of a robust, sustainable local newspaper.
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Senior Human Rights Activist Hungyohung shared the story of Kahor, a weekly paper he co-founded that eventually folded due to financial instability and irregular payments and said, “Pen is mightier than sword, he encouraged the journalists to work without biased but to stand for the truth and be fearless.
Dr. Y.L. Mingthing, former Director of the Tangkhul Theological Association (TTA), provided a counter-narrative of hope, sharing personal experiences of how media influence has been the deciding factor in winning complex legal battles.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks from senior journalist HA Sothing Shimray, who praised the collaboration between UDWJA and SICE, marking the day as a critical step toward demanding a safer and more transparent environment for those who hold the pen.