Journalists, editors and officials gathered in Imphal for a seminar on communal harmony and responsible journalism organised by EGM and DIPR.
Imphal, June 8: A one-day seminar on “Media for Communal Harmony and Responsible Journalism” was held at Sangai Hall of Hotel Imphal on Monday, bringing together journalists, editors, government officials and academics to discuss the role of the media in promoting peace and responsible reporting.
The seminar was jointly organised by the Editors' Guild Manipur (EGM) and the Directorate of Information and Public Relations (DIPR), Government of Manipur, and was inaugurated by Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh.
Welcoming the participants, Director of Information and Public Relations Dr. Th. Charanjeet Singh said the discussions and recommendations emerging from the seminar could provide fresh perspectives for the media fraternity and contribute to the state's development.
Delivering the keynote address, Editor of Imphal Times Rinku Khumukcham stressed the importance of regularly organising such programmes. He said the media plays a crucial role in society and carries significant responsibility in shaping public opinion. According to him, seminars on journalism and media ethics provide an opportunity for journalists to reflect on their professional responsibilities and commitment to responsible reporting.
Media Advisor to the Chief Minister Oinam Sunil Singh spoke on the need to strengthen media institutions in Manipur and reinforce the role of the Directorate of Information and Public Relations in encouraging balanced journalism.
He also emphasised the importance of local narratives, stating that perceptions about Manipur should not be shaped solely by national media coverage. He urged journalists and media organisations in the state to engage in collective discussions aimed at improving the credibility and effectiveness of local media.
During the seminar, President of the Manipur Hill Journalists’ Union (MHJU) Peter Adani highlighted concerns related to illegal immigration and called for a comprehensive policy framework to address the issue. He observed that several states, including West Bengal, Tripura and Assam, have adopted measures under existing laws to deal with illegal immigration and suggested that Manipur may require stronger mechanisms suited to its specific circumstances.
Adani said clear and effective government policies could help address concerns related to law and order, drug trafficking and other social issues. He also called on policymakers and government officials to deliberate on the matter and consider appropriate policy measures.
The seminar featured technical sessions focusing on media ethics, misinformation and conflict-sensitive reporting.
The pre-lunch session was moderated by retired IAS officer Dr. R.K. Nimai. During the session, Joint Secretary of the Home Department Dr. Mayengbam Veto delivered a presentation on media advisories issued by the Manipur Government. Commanding Officer of the 6th IRB and SP (Special Commando) Dr. S. Ibomcha spoke on combating misinformation, rumours and hate speech in the digital era. Associate Professor of the Department of Mass Communication, Manipur University, Natasha Elangbam, presented a lecture on journalism for peace and lessons from conflict regions.
The post-lunch session was moderated by senior journalist A. Mobi. Secretary General of Editors' Guild Manipur and Editor-in-Chief of Impact TV Yumnam Rupachandra presented a paper on responsible reporting during communal tensions and conflict situations.
President of the All Manipur Working Journalists' Union (AMWJU) Ashem Bhakta and MHJU President Peter Adani attended the inaugural function as Guests of Honour, while Editors' Guild Manipur President Khogendra Khomdram presided over the programme.
Additional Directors of Information and Public Relations W. Phajatombi Devi and T. Ramesh Singh, senior editors, journalists, DIPR officials, representatives of media organisations and students of Manipur University were also present.
