Lamyanba Shanglen resonated with homage as the 87th birth anniversary of NK Sanajaoba, a groundbreaker in investigative journalism in Manipur, was commemorated.
Due to the prevailing unrest in Manipur, the event was organised in a low-key manner with the focal point of the commemoration being only the heartfelt offering of floral tributes to the late journalist.
Former rebel leader RK Sanayaima (Meghen) was among the notable attendees of leaders from CSOs, intellectuals and well-wishers who offered heartfelt tributes to late NK Sanajaoba.
Reflecting the enduring impact of Sanajaoba’s journalistic legacy, RK Meghen while speaking to the media on the sidelines of the commemoration, characterised NK Sanajaoba as the second revolutionary journalist following Lamyanba Hijam Irabot.
Shedding light on Sanajaoba’s role as the founder editor of the Lamyanba Journal, published in 1969 by the Pan Manipuri Youth League, he described Sanajaoba’s significance not only in Manipur but as one of India’s pioneer investigative journalists.
Recalling Sanajaoba’s fearless pursuit of truth, especially in exposing corruption by government officials after Manipur’s merger with India, Meghen said, Sanajaoba was feared by the corrupted and respected by all as a pioneer of investigative journalists.
He said, despite facing multiple arrests and imprisonments, including charges of sedition, Sanajaoba remained resolute, enduring torture in prison cells. In fact he is the one who carried journalism in Manipur to the next level, he added.
Further highlighting Sanajaoba’s multifaceted contributions, Meghen revealed his role as a founding member of an organisation which later became a UG group and the founder of Boy Scouts which fostered discipline to the youths.
In conclusion, Meghen encouraged following the footsteps and ideology of NK Sanajaoba expressing confidence that it would lead to the emergence of many enthusiastic future leaders.
