Veteran journalist Yambem Laba, who was abducted and later released by armed militants, issued a public apology under duress. In a startling video statement, he disavowed previous remarks critical of a militant group and vowed to withdraw from public discussions, sparking outrage among media and human rights advocates.
In a shocking turn of events, journalist Yambem Laba, released just hours after being abducted, delivered a forced apology to the media. The veteran journalist, long known for his defiant voice, withdrew statements critical of a militant group and promised to step away from public discourse.
Veteran Journalist Yambem Laba Forced to Issue Public Apology Under Duress After Abduction
Soon after his release from armed captors, veteran journalist and former Manipur Human Rights Commission member Yambem Laba was compelled to issue a public apology in a shocking video statement. The 69-year-old, known for his fearless reporting and criticism of militant groups and the Biren Singh government, appeared visibly distressed as he spoke before members of the media.
Veteran journalist Yambem Laba, who was abducted and later released by armed militants, issued a public apology under duress. In a startling video statement, he disavowed previous remarks critical of a militant group and vowed to withdraw from public discussions, sparking outrage… pic.twitter.com/Pwi4qTmxcW
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The video, translated from Meitei, revealed Laba retracting critical statements he had made about the United National Liberation Front (UNLF) and its armed wing, UNLF-P. His words starkly contrasted his previously unyielding stance on the state’s political and insurgent dynamics.
In the statement, Laba said:
“A couple of days ago, I mistakenly referred to UNLF, a group which has been at the forefront of Manipur’s freedom struggle from India for over sixty years, as a ‘surrendered’ group because they signed a ceasefire agreement with the Indian government and opted to continue its liberation movement through political dialogue. I would like to clarify that this was a misinformed statement, and I appeal to all, especially to the people of Manipur and the UNLF, to forgive me.”
Laba also disavowed previous claims he had made during a television discussion, where he alleged that armed men from UNLF-P had stormed his residence and threatened him over a Facebook post regarding a potential prisoner exchange involving Mark Haokip and two Meitei youth.
He stated:
“That statement was completely false. The armed men never identified themselves as cadres of UNLF-P, and for that, it was a grave mistake on my part. I would like to appeal to the public and UNLF-P to forgive me.”
Most strikingly, Laba concluded with a promise to cease his participation in public discussions entirely:
“I extend my sincere apology to UNLF-P and promise to refrain from participating in any public discussion from here on.”
A Chilling Message to Journalists
The forced apology underscores the perilous climate for media professionals in Manipur, where intimidation, threats, and violence have become disturbingly routine. Yambem Laba, long regarded as a symbol of defiant journalism, had previously faced multiple attacks on his residence and threats over his reporting.
Just hours before his abduction, he appeared on a television talk show openly discussing Chief Minister N. Biren Singh’s resignation and political unrest in the state. His outspoken commentary has frequently drawn the ire of militant groups and political figures alike.
A Legacy of Courage
Laba’s forced apology has drawn widespread condemnation from human rights activists and media organizations.
“It’s clear he was forced to say those things. What happened to him is a disgrace to democracy and free speech,” said a local journalist.
While his release has brought relief to his family and supporters, the coercion behind his apology highlights the escalating threats to press freedom in the state. Media organizations are now demanding that authorities take urgent action to protect journalists and ensure that such incidents
