IT News
Imphal, June 6:
Security personnel assigned to the Editor of Naharolgi Thoudang, Khoirom Loyalakpa, were removed on June 5, despite the editor receiving several intimidating phone calls from unknown numbers. Following the removal of his security detail, two unidentified persons in separate vehicle allegedly followed Khoirom Loyalakpa’s vehicle yesterday evening while he was returning home from his office.
In a complaint lodged with the All Manipur Working Journalist Union, Editor Loyalakpa detailed his ordeal. “It is imperative to note the fact that my life has been persistently threatened by unknown miscreants, prompting the installation of security forces at my residence initially in 2012 and again in 2017 by the Manipur government. I have been inundated with numerous calls from unidentified numbers.
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Furthermore, upon returning from my office yesterday, I observed two vehicles tailing me. Taking evasive action, I promptly made a U-turn and sought refuge back at my workplace. Despite the anonymous nature of these threats, it is evident that my safety and well-being are in jeopardy,” he stated.
The removal of his security detail has raised concerns about the safety of journalists in the region, particularly those who have previously faced threats. The All Manipur Working Journalist Union is expected to address this issue and advocate for the reinstatement of security measures to ensure the safety of Khoirom Loyalakpa and other journalists facing similar threats.