Asem Bhakta, Special Correspondent North East
Imphal: The media fraternity across Manipur has united to pray for the speedy recovery of video journalist Leimapokpam Kabichandra, who is currently receiving treatment at Raj Medicity Hospital after being injured by a bullet while covering a news report in Thamnapokpi Village, Imphal East, on Saturday afternoon.
A significant number of journalists gathered at Raj Medicity in North AOC, Imphal, to show their support for Kabichandra. According to hospital authorities, the bullet struck the bone in his left thigh. An expert team of doctors successfully performed surgery this morning, and Kabichandra’s condition is now stable and out of danger.
Kabichandra, a journalist with Impact TV, was shot by armed Kuki militants while reporting alongside other journalists in the area. He was rushed to Raj Medicity immediately after the incident. Reports suggest that armed Kuki militants have been targeting Meitei villages, including Sinam, Thamnapokpi Sana Sabi, Shanti Khongbal, and Yaingangpokpi, near the foothills since December 24. The violence coincides with Christmas, a time traditionally associated with peace and goodwill.
The All Manipur Working Journalists’ Union (AMWJU) and the Editors’ Guild Manipur (EGM) have strongly condemned the attack on media personnel. They have urged the government to ensure proper protective measures for journalists working in conflict zones.
Prominent individuals and organizations have extended their solidarity to Kabichandra and his family. Among those who visited him are Director of Information and Public Relations Th Charanjit, Joint Director Ashokumar, United Committee Manipur (UCM) President YK Dhiren, General Secretary Shanta Nahakpam, COCOMI President Soerendro, members of DESAM, the Like-Minded Group (LMG), and the Association of Healthcare Providers India (Manipur Chapter), led by Haobijam Rajendra, Managing Director of Raj Medicity.
Meanwhile, reports from the conflict zone indicate that armed miscreants from the Kangpokpi hillside have been resorting to unprovoked firing since December 24. Security forces deployed in the area have retaliated, leading to ongoing exchanges of gunfire, despite the presence of central security personnel. Allegations have also emerged claiming that state forces attempting to protect villagers were obstructed by Casper vehicles of the central security forces. On December 26, a civilian and a state force member were injured in the continuing violence.
In a gesture of gratitude, Impact TV’s Chief Editor, Yumnam Rupachandra, thanked everyone who has extended financial support to assist Kabichandra during this challenging time. Rupachandra also emphasized the need for collective efforts to ensure the safety of journalists working in dangerous conflict zones.
The incident highlights the immense risks faced by journalists in conflict areas and underscores the urgent need for enhanced safety measures to protect media personnel.
