The year 2021 had been an eventful year for all of us at The Frontier Manipur. However, like all independent and fearless news organisations, we too had to face the might of the state in little but significant ways. These include the detention of my colleague and executive editor Paojel Chaoba and I on January 17 for publishing an article that was deemed objectionable in the eyes of the law according to state authorities. However, we sailed through the phase with dignity and pride.
However, problems for us were not over yet. On February 19, 2021, Breach of Privilege and Contempt of the House notice served on the editor of The Frontier Manipur for publishing a news item based on a press release issued by the Directorate of Information & Public Relations (DIPR), Government of Manipur. What was even more interesting was yet to follow. On March 1, our executive editor Paojel Chaoba received a notice from the Manipur government under the Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021. This was the first time in India that a notice had been issued under the new guidelines that the Centre announced on February 25. This repressive action of the state followed a discussion on our social media channel on the topic “Media Under Siege: Are Journalists Walking a Tight Rope.” The action of the state government was halted by the Union government exposing the irrational attempts to suppress the freedom of thought and expression.
Despite the direct and indirect repressive measures adopted by the state, The Frontier Manipur stood its ground and shouldered the responsibility of disseminating information and views to the public. Along the way, our esteemed readers have reposed their faith in our efforts to keep the flag of free expression flying by raising social, political, economic and relevant issues in Manipur and its neighbouring states. With 2022 knocking on our door, The Frontier Manipur would continue to stand for a brand of journalism characterized by fearlessness, courage and eventual amplification of voices from the margins. Our endeavour so far has been made possible with the support of our editorial team, the management, patrons, the advisory board and the citizens whose voices have always been marginalized. I on behalf of all our staff wish our esteemed readers a happy and prosperous New Year 2022!
(Dhiren A. Sadokpam, Editor-in-Chief, The Frontier Manipur)
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The Frontier Manipur had in its initial year 2021 experienced whatever repressive measures meted out by an intolerant government. Such action is met with resistance with truth as our only shield, despite the trials and tribulations, our journey continues. As we bid-adieu to 2021, we welcome 2022 with a positive outlook and practice of disseminating information based on facts, building public opinion and fair criticism of the ruling classes and its policies. We thank those who have and will continue to support the cause of bringing about an independent and fearless media in Manipur.
(Paojel Chaoba, Executive Editor, The Frontier Manipur)
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As the year 2022 rings in, The Frontier Manipur wishes its readers a happy and warm New Year. The year 2022 will be an important year for Manipur as we all will exercise our right to vote in the early New Year and give our mandate to rule the State for five years. Hope the New Year will bring a new government, which can tolerate voices of dissent and respect media freedom and free speech. Amidst all the challenges due to pandemic in the year just gone by, The Frontier Manipur did not give in to state’s coercive power and managed to survive. Whatever the consequences, the Frontier Manipur will stand for fearless and independent journalism.
(Laishram Nandalal, Associate Editor, The Frontier Manipur)
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As we welcome the New Year 2022, The Frontier Manipur would like to wish fellow survivors of the dreaded pandemic a safe and prosperous new year ahead. With the New Year, The Frontier Manipur will continue to work towards making its readers and patrons become better human beings and be well informed citizens. As another year comes to an end amidst the COVID pandemic, we should strive towards acknowledging and appreciating the valuable times we have. Stay safe and keep on raging!
(Iro Ningombam, Contributing Editor, The Frontier Manipur)