Imphal: The All Manipur Working Journalists’ Union (AMWJU) and the Editors’ Guild Manipur (EGM) have extended their black badge and slogan campaign into its second week, intensifying pressure on the state government to deliver justice following the Gwaltabi incident that shook the journalistic fraternity in Manipur.
The protest was sparked by an incident during the Shirui Lily Festival, where journalists officially invited by the Manipur Government were barred multiple times by security forces at Gwaltabi while en route to Ukhrul in a state-arranged MST bus. Most notably, the journalists were instructed to cover the word “Manipur” written on the bus before being allowed to proceed—a move widely condemned as an attack on the press’s dignity and neutrality.
Despite the submission of a detailed memorandum to the Hon’ble Governor of Manipur demanding an impartial inquiry and strict action, the government has remained silent, with no visible steps taken to address the matter or hold the responsible parties accountable.
In response, AMWJU and EGM have vowed to continue their peaceful protest. All members are urged to wear black badges while on duty, and media outlets are requested to publish the weekly protest slogans prominently.
This week’s featured slogans are:
🔹 English:
“Journalists deserve justice, not silence.” — AMWJU & EGM
🔹 Manipuri:
“Journalist-singna achumba wayel phangpham thok-i, tuminna leishilloi-dabani.” — AMWJU & EGM
The joint bodies reaffirmed their dedication to defending press freedom and the safety and dignity of every working journalist in Manipur.
