Congress Leader Stands With Arrested Journalist
Congress president Rahul Gandhi has strongly condemned the detention of Manipur journalist Kishorechandra Wangkhem under the National Security Act (NSA). The political leader reached out to the imprisoned scribe nearly two months after his arrest for a social media post criticizing Chief Minister N Biren Singh.
In a letter addressed directly to Wangkhem, Gandhi expressed his solidarity with the journalist and criticized what he called the misuse of state machinery to suppress dissent. The correspondence was delivered to Wangkhem's wife, Elangbam Ranjita, by TN Haokip, who leads the Congress party's Manipur unit.
The Controversial Arrest and Legal Proceedings
Kishorechandra Wangkhem, a 39-year-old journalist, finds himself behind bars following a video he shared on November 19. In the controversial post, he described Chief Minister N Biren Singh as acting like a puppet of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government. His criticism specifically targeted the extensive celebrations organized for Rani Laxmibai's birth anniversary in Manipur.
The journalist's legal troubles began immediately after his social media activity. Authorities arrested him on November 20, only to release him six days later on November 26. However, in a dramatic turn of events, Wangkhem was arrested again the following day and formally charged under the stringent National Security Act. The court subsequently sentenced him to one year in prison, which represents the maximum punishment possible under this legislation.
Political Reactions and Government Response
Rahul Gandhi did not mince words in his condemnation of the situation. He wrote, I strongly condemn your detention under the National Security Act. This is another attempt to use the state machinery to silence dissent. The Congress president further expressed concern about what he perceives as a disturbing pattern where regressive forces operate without consequences while those demanding accountability face imprisonment.
Chief Minister N Biren Singh defended the action against Wangkhem, drawing a distinction between criticism and humiliation. The CM stated that while he can tolerate criticism, he cannot accept the humiliation of national leaders. He specifically mentioned that Wangkhem had abused national icons like Rani of Jhansi and Prime Minister Modi, actions that according to him transcend the boundaries of freedom of expression.
Meanwhile, the Manipur High Court has介入 in the matter, seeking official responses from multiple authorities. The Centre, the state government, and the Imphal West district magistrate must all provide their positions regarding Wangkhem's petition challenging his detention. The court has scheduled the next hearing for February 1, which will determine the future course of this controversial case.
The Congress party has assured Wangkhem and his family of their complete support, promising to extend assistance in any manner possible during this challenging period. This case has sparked significant discussion about freedom of expression and the application of security laws in India.
