Laii shooting incident: Press clubs raise concern over journalist safety

DIMAPUR — The Dimapur Press Club (DPC) and Kohima Press Club (KPC) have expressed deep concern over the August 30 unfortunate incident in Laii village in Manipur Senapati district, where Hornbill TV journalist Dip Saikia was injured by airgun pellets while on assignment.

In a press release on Sunday, the DPC stated that while initial reports suggested a possible deliberate attack, subsequent clarifications from different quarters indicate that the shooting was unintentional.

“Nevertheless, the circumstances surrounding the incident remain troubling. Questions persist as to how a visitor was able to carry a weapon within the jurisdiction of a host village when customary law across Naga villages prohibits the possession of hunting arms by outsiders.

“The DPC underscores that the safety of journalists, whether in conflict zones or cultural gatherings, must be ensured at all times. Any environment where reporters are made vulnerable—be it through negligence, oversight, or direct hostility—poses a serious challenge to press freedom,” the club stated.

The DPC urged the concerned authorities, including the Laii Village Council, the Senapati district administration, and law enforcement, to provide a transparent account of the incident and ensure that due responsibility is taken.

“At the same time, the DPC appeals to media colleagues and the wider public to refrain from politicising the matter until all facts are established,” the release added.

In a separate statement, the Kohima Press Club denounced the unfortunate incident that led to the injury of a fellow journalist.

“While the incident may have been accidental as suggested by reports, we however urge the concerned authorities to conduct a thorough investigation into the incident to ensure the safety of every citizen.

“We also reiterate our appeal that a conducive environment be provided for journalists to work in,” the KPC stated.

Both the press clubs wished Saikia speedy recovery.

NPCC condemns Laii shooting incident

The Nagaland Pradesh Congress Committee (NPCC) has condemned the unfortunate incident in which Dip Saikia, a reporter with Hornbill TV, sustained injuries while covering the Zinnia Flower Festival at Laii village, Senapati district, Manipur.

“We are relieved to learn that his condition is now stable and wish him a speedy and complete recovery. We stand in solidarity with Saikia, his family, and the entire Hornbill TV team during this challenging time,” the NPCC stated in a press release.

While noting that initial reports suggested the incident might have been accidental, the NPCC urged the governments of Manipur and Nagaland to ensure a swift, transparent, and impartial investigation to rule out any criminal intent and to uphold the safety of media professionals.

Related: Hornbill TV reporter shot while covering event in Manipur