Journalist Attacked While Reporting at Manipur Flower Festival

A journalist from a Nagaland-based TV channel was attacked by unidentified individuals while covering the 'Zinnia Flower Festival' or 'Cherry Blossom Festival' in Laii village, Senapati district, Manipur. The attack occurred around 4 pm. The journalist, Deep Saikia, sustained injuries to his right leg and below the armpit. He was swiftly transported to Senapati District Hospital for initial medical attention and was later transferred to Nagaland for more extensive treatment. Hospital officials have confirmed that Saikia's condition is now stable. Manipur police have filed a First Information Report (FIR) regarding the incident and have recovered the suspected weapon, a pressurized air rifle, used in the assault. A senior police official stated that the suspect has been identified, and a team has been deployed to apprehend him. The motive behind the attack remains unclear.