On January 28, 2023, security personnel led by Mr. W. Ibocha Singh arrived at Mr. Joykumar's residence, arresting him in connection with a murder case. Despite being detained for two hours at Thoubal police station, Mr. Joykumar was allowed to contact his lawyer and later produced before the Judicial Magistrate Thoubal

Mr. Joykumar has been a vocal advocate against corruption and collusion between Manipur government officials and armed opposition groups. Previously, he faced threats in 2022 to withdraw his PIL regarding the distribution of rice under PMGKAY during the Covid-19 pandemic. The recent arrest is perceived as an act of reprisal for his RTI work and PILs against government officials.

The background of the incident involves the murder of Mr. Laishram Rameshwor Singh on January 24, 2023, and the subsequent arrest of Ayekpam Keshorjit, who claimed to act in self-defense. However, the main accused's wife stated that her husband was an RTI activist.

Civil society groups in Manipur condemn Joykumar's arrest, alleging it is a reprisal for his outspokenness on Right to Information issues. Human Rights Defenders Alert (HRDA) has issued an urgent appeal to the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) regarding the arbitrary arrest of RTI activist and lawyer, Mr. Wahengbam Joykumar, by Manipur police. Joykumar, known for his anti-corruption stance and activism, has been falsely implicated in a murder case as an act of reprisal.

HRDA calls on NHRC to initiate an independent investigation, recommend prosecution against police officials, ensure Joykumar's safety, and intervene legally to quash the false charges.