Imphal:
Journalists in Manipur are giving up their press identity cards issued by the government demanding punishment of police personnel allegedly involved in harassment of mediapersons.
"We are surrendering our I-cards because the police force humiliates and beats up anyone holding DIPR cards," said spokesperson, AMAWJU.
Priyo Achom, a reporter with a local cable TV network and Ayekpam Birjit working with an evening daily, were returning home on October 10 when they were intimidated and beaten up by police commandos who even threatened to shoot them.
"We are under pressure from both state and non-state actors. After training their guns on civil society they are now training their guns on journalists," said Irengbam Arun, the Editor.
Though there have been cases of journalists found involved with militancy, the press has actually been under pressure from both ends.
"Some IRB persons were caught lobbing grenades. Does it mean the DGP and entire police force is in league with militancy?" said Irengbam.
Even as protests against the alleged July 23 fake encounter continues, the government has started cracking down on journalists who they think have instigated the protests.
"We are surrendering our I-cards because the police force humiliates and beats up anyone holding DIPR cards," said spokesperson, AMAWJU.
Priyo Achom, a reporter with a local cable TV network and Ayekpam Birjit working with an evening daily, were returning home on October 10 when they were intimidated and beaten up by police commandos who even threatened to shoot them.
"We are under pressure from both state and non-state actors. After training their guns on civil society they are now training their guns on journalists," said Irengbam Arun, the Editor.
Though there have been cases of journalists found involved with militancy, the press has actually been under pressure from both ends.
"Some IRB persons were caught lobbing grenades. Does it mean the DGP and entire police force is in league with militancy?" said Irengbam.
Even as protests against the alleged July 23 fake encounter continues, the government has started cracking down on journalists who they think have instigated the protests.
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