Media Groups Demand Answers After ANSU Harassment of Journalist

Itanagar: Arunachal Pradesh media organizations are demanding a formal explanation from the All Nyishi Students Union (ANSU) following the detention of video journalist Joram Domin. During a 12-hour bandh in Nirjuli on September 24, protesters intercepted Domin at Bage Tinali. It got ugly fast.

Volunteers seized Domin's motorcycle and mobile phone, cutting him off from his colleagues. For three hours, they intimidated him and demanded he record an apology video because of his job. He could not call for help. Thiem Lhouvum, the managing head of his employer, eventually arrived at the scene to intervene. She confronted 20 to 30 volunteers to end the standoff.

The Arunachal Pradesh Union of Working Journalists (APUWJ) and Arunachal Press Club (APC) blasted the actions of the volunteers. They released a statement calling the behavior a direct attack on press freedom. APUWJ president Dodum Yangfo and APC president Amar Sangno want accountability for the harassment.

The organizations issued a firm stance on the safety of reporters during public demonstrations. "Journalists should be allowed to carry out their professional duties without intimidation," the statement read. Both unions are now backing Domin and waiting for the ANSU leadership to explain why their people targeted a working reporter.