Amid the ongoing flood emergency in Manipur, media organizations in the state have decided to temporarily lift their boycott of government-related news for issues pertaining to emergency services and disaster response.

The All Manipur Working Journalists’ Union (AMWJU) and the Editors Guild Manipur (EGM) announced on Friday that journalists will now resume coverage of flood relief operations and other developments related to natural calamities in the interest of public welfare.

While a full general body meeting could not be convened due to time constraints, both media bodies stated that the decision was taken after consulting their members. They clarified that the wider media blackout on news involving the Governor, government authorities, and security forces remains in place, but exceptions will now be made for reports essential to public safety and emergency services.

The media boycott was initiated following an incident on May 20, when security personnel from the 4 Mahar Regiment allegedly stopped a media vehicle and forced journalists to delete the words “Manipur State Transport” from it. The incident drew sharp condemnation from the journalistic community.

In response, the Manipur Chief Secretary issued a clarification stating that no such directive was given by the government and that an internal inquiry is currently underway. The findings of the investigation are expected to be submitted by June 5.

Since the start of the boycott, media outlets affiliated with AMWJU and EGM had refrained from publishing or broadcasting any content related to the Governor, the state and central governments, or security forces. However, with the flood crisis affecting thousands across the state, the media bodies emphasized that the partial relaxation is aimed at ensuring the public receives timely and vital information.

News coverage will now include flood updates, evacuation efforts, and relief measures, even as calls for accountability over the May 20 incident continue.