Hornbill TV reporter shot while covering event in Manipur

KOHIMA — A Hornbill TV reporter was injured on Saturday evening after being shot by a stray bullet from an air gun while covering the Zinnia Flower Festival at Laii Village in Senapati district, Manipur.

According to village leaders, the accused claimed that he "unintentionally" injured the reporter, Dip Saikia, while attempting to shoot a bird from a distance of about 100 metres.

The accused further stated that he was unaware of the reporter’s presence due to the foggy weather. After the incident, the accused was apprehended along with the air gun.

Sources said that Saikia, initially, was unaware that he had been shot. It was only when blood started oozing from his wound that he suspected it was from a projectile.

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He went to Laii PHC for first aid, where, on the way, he encountered two individuals with air guns who admitted to shooting twice. The group then assumed the bullet had struck Saikia during their attempt to shoot birds, leading them to seek medical help together.

The reporter was reportedly shot in the armpit and leg. Village elders and leaders were set to meet regarding the incident at the time of filing this report.

The Officer-in-Charge of Tungjoy Police Station, Timothy Ronamai, confirmed that an FIR had been filed, though further details were unavailable as the investigation is still underway. He informed that Saikia is in stable condition, although the bullet in his underarm remains lodged.

Condemnations

Meanwhile, Hornbill TV has condemned the attack on Saikia and called for a swift and impartial investigation.

In a statement issued after the incident, the network underscored the importance of safeguarding press freedom.

“Journalists serve as the eyes and ears of the public, often risking their lives to bring truth to light. The shooting of Mr. Saikia while he was covering a cultural event is not only an assault on his person but also a direct attack on press freedom and the democratic values we uphold,” the statement read.

It expressed solidarity with Saikia's family and wished him a full recovery. The network further urged the governments of Nagaland and Manipur, along with law enforcement agencies, to ensure that the assailant and any accomplices are held accountable.

The Mokokchung Times has also expressed its deep shock and condemnation of the incident, reiterating that an attack on a journalist is an attack on press freedom itself.

The publication stated that it stands in solidarity with Saikia, his family, and the Hornbill TV team, calling for a thorough investigation and swift justice.

“We pray for his speedy recovery and call on authorities to ensure that justice is served promptly,” it stated. “Such incidents underscore the growing risks faced by journalists in the region, and we urge the state, civil society, and citizens to work together to protect press freedom.”