Journalist Deep Saikia Injured in Attack at Manipur Flower Festival

While covering the ‘Zinnia Flower Festival’ or ‘Cherry Blossom Festival’ in Laii village, Senapati district, Manipur, a journalist from a Nagaland-based TV channel was shot by unidentified assailants. The attack happened around 4 pm. The journalist, Deep Saikia, was wounded in his right leg and below the armpit. He received initial medical attention at Senapati District Hospital and was later moved to Nagaland for further treatment. Hospital sources have confirmed that Saikia’s condition is now stable. The Manipur police have taken action by filing an FIR and have recovered the suspected weapon, a pressurized air rifle. Police officials have identified the alleged attacker and have sent a team to make an arrest. The motive for the attack remains unclear at this time.