Senapati, August 31 (MExN): The Office of the Laii (Vafiimai) Village Authority Council today expressed “deep regret” over the alleged shooting incident within its jurisdiction on August 30 that injured Hornbill TV reporter Dip Saikia, while at the same time appealing against politicising the matter and assuring full cooperation to ensure that justice takes its course.
The reporter was in the village covering the Zinnia Festival at Laii, and the incident occurred approximately 3 km south of the festival venue, it said.
In its statement, the Council termed the incident “unfortunate and concerning,” while stressing that it does not reflect the “peace-loving and hospitable” character of the community.
It further clarified that the alleged perpetrator, identified as Raiveinii Ramai, was a visiting tourist at the ongoing Zinnia Festival, and belongs to Phuba Khuman while currently residing at Council, Senapati.
The Laii Council also underscored that possession of an air-gun and hunting in the village is prohibited under its local regulations.
According to the statement, Ramai admitted before the Laii Village Authority to “discharging an air-gun with the intention of shooting a bird,” and maintained that he did not perceive the presence of the victim at the time of shooting.
The Council reiterated that although the incident occurred within its jurisdiction, the people of Laii had no involvement in the “tragic incident.”
Meanwhile, it condemned certain media reports which allegedly sought to “tarnish the image of Laii Village by reporting without ascertaining the ground reality.”
“While we fully condemn the unfortunate incident, we strongly object to any attempt to portray Laii Village in a negative light without verification of facts,” it stated.
Such reporting is “misleading, unfair, and damaging to the reputation of a community that has always been peace-loving and hospitable,” it added.
To this end, the Council urged the media to refrain from politicising the matter and to ensure that reports are based on verified facts.
The Laii Village Authority Council, through its Chairman K Salouni and Secretary K Ngaopuni, also conveyed its solidarity with the victim and expressed sincere concern for his recovery, while assuring full cooperation to ensure that justice takes its course.
The Council further apologised to visitors for the distress caused and reaffirmed the village’s commitment to providing a safe and welcoming environment for all.
