Imphal: Nikhil Singh, a Sub-Inspector with the Manipur Police, has been suspended following allegations of assaulting journalist RC Mangang during a protest rally organized by internally displaced persons. The incident occurred on August 1 at the Akampat relief camp in Imphal East.
The Superintendent of Police for Imphal East District announced that Singh’s suspension resulted from his “serious misconduct,” which breaches the expected standards for police conduct. This suspension, effective immediately, was issued under Rule No. 66 of the Assam Police Manual Part-III. During his suspension, Singh must stay at the Reserve Line headquarters in Porompat and cannot leave without prior permission. He will receive subsistence allowances as stipulated by the rules.
The incident prompted a protest led by the All Manipur Working Journalists’ Union (AMWJU) and the Editors Guild Manipur (EGM). Journalists marched from the Manipur Press Club to the Chief Minister’s residence, where they presented a memorandum to Chief Minister N. Biren Singh, demanding stringent action against Singh.
Mangang recounted that Singh confronted him while he was covering the protest, questioned his presence, and, despite Mangang identifying himself as a journalist, proceeded to assault him. Mangang reported being punched several times, having his phone destroyed, his shirt ripped, and being threatened. He was treated for his injuries at Raj Medicity.
Y Rupachandra, Chief Editor of IMPACT TV and General Secretary of EGM, denounced the assault, underscoring the media’s collective opposition to such violence. Following the protest, media representatives met with Chief Minister Singh, who condemned the incident and committed to directing the Director General of Police (DGP) to investigate thoroughly.
The formal suspension order for Singh confirms his suspension until further notice and requires him to remain at the Reserve Line headquarters during this period.
The power of journalist 👍
good to see such action taken against police
hope every knows their fundamental rights and duties
Suspension is not enough, he should be terminated. Suspension is not a termination it’s a short break for him.
Something like summer vacation for the suspended police personnel.
proper training should be given to police personals to handle the public. Manipur police are known for misusing their power.
Let justice prevail