IMPHAL, February 16: The All Manipur Working Journalist Union (AMWJU) has lifted its boycott imposed on all news related to Assam Rifles with immediate effect during an emergency meeting convened today.
A statement issued by GA Naocha Sharma, general secretary, AMWJU said the decision was taken following a high level meeting held at the Manipur Press Club, Imphal with Brig. Rajeev Chibber, commander 26 sector Assam Rifles, Pallel on February.
It said that in the emergency meeting presided by Wangkhemcha Shamjai, president AMWJU, Brig. Rajeev Chibber, conveyed the gathering that an internal inquiry was underway to probe into the February 12 incident occurred at Moreh wherein the 9th Battalion AR personnel led by Col Anandi Antare who reportedly assaulted impact TV`™s bureau Chief, Noren Ningombam and video journalist, K Bipin Sharma at Moreh while they were covering a mob attack at the SDPO, Moreh office.
Assuring that all those found guilty in the incident will be awarded with befitting punishment, it said that the Brigadier further informed to communicate the proceedings of the inquiry to the union.
Further the AR commander also gave his assurance that similar incident will not be happen in future adding that if it does so, the involved AR personnel will be punished instantly, it said.
At the same time, the AR commander while proposing better relation between the force and the media, assured to give special concessions to media persons on duty while crossing all its check points, it continued.
The AMWJU also insisted the AR should bear the expenses of Noren`™s damaged spectacles, microphone, ID logo and medical expenses incurred and the brigadier accepted this demand, it said.
Taking the above into account and having considered the views and interests of the victims, Noren and Bipin Sharma, the standing committee of AMWJU, in the interest of the journalists and in the interest of providing news concerning the state, it has unanimously decided to life its boycott of the Assam Rifles, concluded the statement.