Journalists Directed to Conceal ‘Manipur’ Sign on Official Bus, Return Without Covering Shirui Festival
News Summary
On May 20, 2025, a group of journalists en route to cover the Shirui Lily Festival in Ukhrul district, Manipur, were instructed by security personnel at the Gwaltabi checkpoint to conceal the “Manipur State Transport” signage on their official bus. The directive led to confusion and delays, ultimately causing the media team to abandon their assignment and return to Imphal. This incident has raised concerns about press freedom and the security environment in the region.
The Incident: A Closer Look
The Journey Begins
Around 6:30 AM on May 20, 2025, approximately 20 journalists, accompanied by staff from the Directorate of Information and Public Relations (DIPR), departed from Imphal to cover the inaugural day of the Shirui Lily Festival in Ukhrul district. The festival, celebrating the rare Shirui Lily, was to be inaugurated by the Governor of Manipur.
Checkpoint Confrontation
The media team’s bus, clearly marked with “Manipur State Transport,” passed through three security checkpoints without incident. However, at the Gwaltabi checkpoint in Imphal East, personnel from the Mahar Regiment allegedly instructed the team to conceal the “Manipur State Transport” signage on their vehicle. This unexpected directive caused confusion among the journalists, who questioned the rationale behind hiding a state government name within the same state.
Decision to Return
Despite initial attempts to comply and proceed to the festival, the delays resulting from negotiations with security forces led to significant time loss. Consequently, the journalists decided to return to Imphal and later arranged alternate transportation on their own.
Implications and Reactions
Press Freedom Concerns
This incident has sparked serious questions regarding freedom of the press and the existing security environment in Manipur. Media personnel have called for clarity from the authorities regarding the rationale behind the instruction, especially given the state-backed nature of the journey.
Public Discourse
The event has ignited discussions on social media and among civil society groups, emphasizing the need for transparent communication between security forces and the media. The lack of clear guidelines and the arbitrary nature of the directive have been points of contention.
The Shirui Lily Festival: A Cultural Overview
Location and Significance
The Shirui Lily Festival is held annually in Ukhrul district, Manipur, to celebrate the blooming of the rare Shirui Lily (Lilium mackliniae), which is endemic to the region. The festival showcases the rich cultural heritage of the Tangkhul Naga tribe and aims to promote tourism and environmental awareness.
Festival Activities
The week-long festival features traditional dances, music performances, indigenous games, and exhibitions of local crafts and cuisines. It serves as a platform for cultural exchange and fosters a sense of community among participants and visitors.
FAQs
Q1: Why were journalists instructed to hide the “Manipur State Transport” sign on their bus?
A1: Security personnel at the Gwaltabi checkpoint allegedly directed the media team to conceal the signage, leading to confusion about the rationale behind such an instruction within the same state.
Q2: What is the Shirui Lily Festival?
A2: The Shirui Lily Festival is an annual event in Ukhrul district, Manipur, celebrating the blooming of the rare Shirui Lily and showcasing the cultural heritage of the Tangkhul Naga tribe.
Q3: How did the incident affect the media coverage of the festival?
A3: Due to the delays and confusion caused by the directive at the checkpoint, the journalists returned to Imphal and missed covering the inaugural day of the festival
Q4: What has been the public reaction to this incident?
A4: The incident has raised concerns about press freedom and the security environment in Manipur, prompting calls for clarity and better communication between authorities and the media.
Q5: What steps can be taken to prevent similar incidents in the future?
A5: Establishing clear guidelines for interactions between security forces and media personnel, along with improved communication and coordination, can help prevent such occurrences.
