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March 19, 2025 – Philippines –
In a landmark event for media representation in Northeast India, the first Manipur Naga Journalists’ Conclave was held from March 17 to 19, 2025, at Magen Hills, Viewland, in Ukhrul district. Organized by the Ukhrul District Working Journalists’ Association (UDWJA), the three-day gathering brought together journalists from five Naga-majority districts—Chandel, Noney, Tamenglong, Senapati, and Ukhrul—under the unifying theme “Connecting Voices”.
A central outcome of the conclave was the revival of the long-dormant “Syndication of Naga Journalists,” originally established in 2003 by veteran journalists including Newmai Witoubou and Ngachonmi Chamroy. The organization was rechristened as the “Naga Journalists’ Union Manipur” (NJUM), aiming to consolidate solidarity among Naga journalists across the state.
The conclave featured prominent figures such as Vareiyo Shatsang, General Secretary of the United Naga Council (UNC), who served as a proponent, and panelists Witoubou Newmai, Chief Editor of Newmai News Network (NNN), and senior journalist Sothing Hunphun Awungshi. Discussions focused on bridging gaps in regional journalism and addressing challenges faced by journalists in the Naga Hill districts.
An interim executive body for NJUM was constituted, with Tennoson elected as President and Vangamla Salle KS as General Secretary. The union aims to advocate for press freedom, improve working conditions, and ensure the safety of journalists operating in conflict-prone and underrepresented areas.
The formation of NJUM comes at a critical time, as journalists in Manipur face increasing challenges, including recent incidents where security forces allegedly instructed media personnel to conceal the state’s name on official transport, sparking protests and a “Pen Down Strike” by journalist unions.
By reviving and rebranding their union, Naga journalists in Manipur are taking significant steps toward strengthening their collective voice, advocating for press freedom, and enhancing the role of journalism in fostering community resilience and democratic discourse.
Reference –
First Manipur Naga Journalists’ Conclave held, Revives a Union
