Imphal: A contingent of journalists en route to cover the Shirui Lily Festival in Manipur found their assignment abruptly halted on Tuesday, May 20, following an alleged directive from security personnel to obscure the words “Manipur State Transport” on their official vehicle.
The incident, occurring at the Gwaltabi checkpoint in Imphal East, approximately 25 kilometers from the state capital, compelled the media team to abandon their journey and return to Imphal.
The bus, specially arranged by the Directorate of Information and Public Relations (DIPR) for media coverage, was transporting approximately 20 journalists and DIPR staff.
heir departure from the DIPR office in Imphal was at approximately 6:30 AM, aiming to cover the inaugural day of the Shirui Lily Festival, an event slated to be inaugurated by the Governor of Manipur.
Having successfully cleared three preceding checkpoints with routine security checks, the vehicle reached Gwaltabi where personnel from the Mahar Regiment reportedly issued the instruction to conceal the “Manipur State Transport” inscription on the bus.
This directive sparked considerable concern and bewilderment among the journalists, who questioned the rationale behind concealing a state government identifier while operating within the geographical boundaries of the very same state.
Despite initial attempts by the team to comply to ensure timely arrival at the festival venue, the ensuing negotiations with security forces led to significant delays. Ultimately, the journalists collectively decided to return to Imphal and subsequently made their own arrangements for alternative transportation.
This event has ignited serious discussions concerning the freedom of the press, the safety of individuals, and the prevailing security landscape within the region. Media professionals are now seeking explicit clarification from the authorities regarding the justification for such an instruction, particularly given the official, state-supported nature of their journey.
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