The Manipur Crisis: Where 'Fact' Faces a Fiery Backlash

In the enigmatic realm of Manipur, the Editors Guild of India (EGI) fact-finding committee ventured into uncharted waters, only to find themselves facing the ire of an uncommon phenomenon - FIRs filed against visiting members. This unique experience seems to have taken root exclusively in the tapestry of Manipur's socio-political landscape. Notably, the National Federation of Indian Women's fact-finding committee wasn't spared either, meeting with a similar chorus of disapproval from the Meitei community, culminating in FIRs filed against them. It's as though, in the presence of 'fact,' certain sections of society that thrive on 'fake' news develop an acute allergy. Rather than confronting the facts head-on, they prefer to silence the 'fact' finders.

For those acquainted with the ongoing Manipur crisis, the origin lies squarely in the realm of 'fake news.' Those who closely monitor the crisis need not gaze too far to discern that Meitei actions bear the fingerprints of state sponsorship and meticulous pre-planning. As Meiteis assaulted Kangvai and set houses ablaze, the social media sphere was already awash with counterfeit images portraying Meitei women as victims of rape. Meanwhile, the Kukis of Imphal, effectively barricaded within the capital town since May 2, 2023, a day preceding the crisis's eruption, were held back by the Meetei Leepun cadres to endure the subsequent unleashing of Meitei brutality the following day. Their assault, fuelled by rapidly circulating fake news, was delayed until the evening of May 3.

The EGI report boldly asserts that Manipur's media has metamorphosed into the Meitei Media, an inference drawn from their glaringly biased reporting throughout the crisis. EGI didn't shy away from pointing out the Meitei Media's culpability in stoking animosity and hatred against the Kukis. However, it's this undeniable revelation in the EGI report that the Meiteis simply couldn't stomach. It's akin to striking a nerve so deep that they resort to an unethical and barbaric response. Rather than engaging in constructive debate or addressing the report's findings, they opt for the expedient route of filing police complaints. It's crucial to note that even the Chief Minister himself chose to vilify the EGI by branding them as anti-national. Their frantic rush to take swift action against the EGI serves as a stark testament to the glaring absence of FACT and TRUTH in the Meiteis' world.

Their vehement opposition to FACT-FINDING agencies shouldn't come as a shock. Anyone who dares to speak the unvarnished truth finds themselves bearing the brunt of FIRs. Noteworthy individuals like Prof. Khamkhansuan Hausing, Prof. J. Guite, Prof. Thongkholal Haokip, and others have experienced this heavy-handed attempt to silence Kuki intellectuals. However, the world watches with an unwavering gaze, observing their fabrications and their disdain for the TRUTH.