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Geneva/Imphal: A senior journalist from Manipur, Yambem Laba, was abducted by militants on the morning of February 11, 2025, but was later released following strong protests from media groups, including the Press Emblem Campaign (PEC).
Laba, a 69-year-old journalist associated with The Statesman, was kidnapped from his home in Uripok, Imphal, by armed militants.
The PEC, a global media rights body, condemned the abduction and urged Indian authorities and Prime Minister Narendra Modi to take swift action. PEC President Blaise Lempen stated that journalists must be free to express their views without fear of violence.
PEC’s south Asia representative Nava Thakuria added that the Myanmar bordering State has been witnessing communally-flared conflicts between the majority Meitei people and minority communities including the Kukis. ‘Since May 2023, over 250 people have been killed and more than 60,000 residents were displaced. A large number of public and private properties in various parts of Manipur belonging to both the communities have been targeted, vandalized and even burnt down’. He added.
Laba was missing for several hours, causing deep concern among his family and colleagues. Security forces launched a search operation, and growing public pressure led to his eventual release.
