Senapati, September 7: The Naga Journalists’ Union Manipur (NJUM) has issued a press statement detailing the findings of its fact-finding team, formed to investigate the incident in which Dip Saikia, a journalist from Hornbill TV, was reportedly hit by pellets from an airgun.
The alleged shooter has been identified as Reiveinii Ramai, 26 years old, son of Dale of Phuba Khuman village, who is currently residing at Council, Senapati.
NJUM stated that the urgency to verify the incident stemmed from the widespread circulation of various content on social media and news agencies. Some of these accounts were reported to have taken on political or ethnic overtones.
“But, most paramount to NJUM has been the frequent harassment and attacks of individuals associated with the fourth estate. NJUM is also aware of the responsibility a journalist is bound with— to tell the true story,” the statement read.
In light of these concerns, NJUM formed a three-member fact-finding team to verify the details surrounding the incident. The team visited Laii village under Tungjoy Police Station in Senapati District, where they met with police officials, village leaders of Laii, and visited the location where the shooting took place.
The team also interviewed Ramai, who is currently in police custody, and spoke over the phone with Saikia, who is undergoing medical treatment in Guwahati.
Key Findings Presented by NJUM:
- Mr.Ramai was unaware of the presence of Mr. Saikia or anyone while shooting the
airgun and the incident happened during rainy and foggy weather conditions. The
villagers only learned about the incident when Mr. Saikia was brought to the Laii
Primary Health Centre for first aid. - Ramai had voluntarily gone to the Laii PHC when learnt of Saikia being shot and had apologized to Saikia in the presence of village authority council members and the village headman. He had also shown his willingness to assist while Saikia underwent treatment.
- An FIR (FIR No. 02(08)2025, Tungjoy PS) under Section 109/117 of BNS and 25 (1C) of Arms Act was filed under Tungjoy Police Station on 31 August 2025. The NJUM also acknowledges the prompt action of Senapati Police in detaining the accused.
NJUM also acknowledged the prompt action of the Senapati Police in detaining the accused and reiterated that the fact-finding report is not a final verdict, but a step towards verifying the story. The union stated that it is aware the investigation is ongoing and expressed its willingness to cooperate with any individuals or authorities seeking to further verify the facts of the case.
While condemning the indiscriminate use of devices or weapons, such as airguns, in public areas due to their potential to cause extensive harm, even to the extent of causing death, NJUM called for a fair and just investigation to ensure that all responsible individuals are held accountable.
