IMPHAL, Nov 7: The All Manipur Working Journalists’ Union (AMWJU) has served a legal notice to the People’s Union for Civil Liberties (PUCL), demanding the immediate withdrawal of a report that it describes as defamatory, unverified, and damaging to its reputation. The notice also seeks an unconditional public apology from PUCL.
The report in question, which PUCL released concerning “media testimonies” related to the ongoing conflict in Manipur, was deemed by AMWJU to contain false and malicious allegations. According to AMWJU, the report unfairly labels the union as “Godi media,” insinuates coercion and threats against journalists, and misrepresents its membership structure. The report further accused the union of partisan media coverage and exclusionary practices, claims that AMWJU strongly rejected.
The legal notice, drafted by advocate Hijam Chandrakumar, a member of the Media Legal Committee jointly formed by AMWJU and the Editors’ Guild Manipur (EGM), asserts that the PUCL report was based on unverified hearsay, published without consulting AMWJU, thus violating the principles of natural justice. The notice stresses that AMWJU’s membership is open to all qualified working journalists employed in RNI-registered publications, irrespective of ethnicity or political affiliation, and is governed by strict constitutional and legal guidelines.
In its response, AMWJU emphasized its commitment to journalistic integrity and press freedom, asserting that the PUCL’s accusations have caused significant harm to its credibility, which the union has worked hard to establish over decades.
The notice warns that if PUCL does not retract the report and issue a public apology within 30 days, AMWJU will pursue both civil and criminal legal action under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, including defamation charges and a claim for damages.
This move by AMWJU comes amid growing concerns over the role of media in covering sensitive issues related to the ongoing conflict in Manipur. The union’s strong response highlights the importance of ensuring accuracy and fairness in reporting, especially in a region affected by political and social unrest.
