Guwahati: Kuki Inpi Manipur (KIM) has strongly criticised Republic TV over a report that allegedly described the Khulmi Bridge in Manipur as a route for drug trafficking, calling the broadcast “false”, “defamatory” and damaging to the image of the Kuki-Zo community.
In an open letter addressed to Republic TV Editor-in-Chief Arnab Goswami, journalist Linthoi Khoirom and the channel’s editorial board, Kuki Inpi Manipur alleged that the report misrepresented the purpose of the bridge and unfairly portrayed residents of Chandel, Tengnoupal and Churachandpur districts.
KIM said the Khulmi Bridge was constructed through community efforts after years of inadequate infrastructure and government neglect. According to the organisation, the bridge was built to provide a safe crossing over the Imphal River, where at least eight people had drowned while attempting to cross the river during emergencies, underscoring the urgent need for permanent connectivity in the area.
Rejecting allegations linking the bridge to drug trafficking, KIM said the bridge is located close to security force camps and is under regular surveillance. It alleged that Republic TV aired the report without conducting proper on-ground verification or consulting local residents and community representatives.
The organisation also criticised the journalist associated with the report, alleging that the coverage ignored the realities faced by people living in the hill districts and had the potential to deepen divisions in the conflict-affected state.
KIM further argued that portraying the bridge as a hub for illegal activities undermines a community-built infrastructure project meant to improve connectivity and save lives, while also risking further unrest in the region.
Calling for corrective action, Kuki Inpi Manipur urged Republic TV to withdraw what it described as misleading allegations, issue an appropriate correction and ensure proper fact-checking and field verification before reporting on sensitive issues concerning Manipur.