Shortly after the death threats issued to journalists of Manipur by a rebel group, which prompted them to launch a two day ceasework , Yumnam Ibomcha, a staff reporter of a local daily, was beaten up by paramilitary troopers in the Collector's office in Imphal West district on Wednesday.
In an emergency meeting of the All Manipur Working Journalists' Union (AMWJU) the scribes demanded exemplary punishment forthe troopers, and adequate financial assistance for the injured journalist for medical treatment .
E. Priyokumar, Commandant of 1st Manipur Rifles told The Hindu that one trooper of his battalion, Ramesh Golmei has been suspended from service. Official sources also said that disciplinary action is being initiated against Mohammad Fiazuddin of 3rd Indian Reserve Battalion.
During the meeting, Ibomcha said that he had gone to the collector's office on learning that diesel permits issued to the farmers were being triplicated in view of the acute shortage of fuel in Manipur. After identifying himself, he sought some details. However, two troopers punched and kicked him ceaselessly.
