Imphal: Senior journalist and editor Dhanbir Maibam, 62, of the popular Manipuri daily “Huiyel Lalpao,” was released on Sunday after spending three days in police custody.
His arrest on January 5 sparked concerns about press freedom in the state.
Ready for a challenge? Click here to take our quiz and show off your knowledge!
Maibam was arrested following a news report published in his newspaper regarding the law and order situation in Manipur.
Also Read: Assam: Cops attacked by miscreants in Nagaon, one arrested
Police claimed the report violated Indian Penal Code sections 153-A (promoting enmity between different groups), 505(1)(B) (statements conducive to public mischief), 505(2) (false statements inducing public mischief), 120-B (criminal conspiracy), and provisions of the Official Secrets Act.
Ready for a challenge? Click here to take our quiz and show off your knowledge!
They alleged the report was highly inflammatory and likely to cause fear or alarm.
Also Read: Assam revs up green mobility with launch of India’s first electric bike taxi fleet
This marks the second instance in recent times where a senior Manipuri journalist has been detained for news reports.
On December 31st, Wangkhemcha Shyamjai, editor of the vernacular daily “Kangleipakki Meira,” was also arrested and released after three days for a report published in his publication.