'Journalists working in northeast states are vulnerable'

Deeply concerned about Arunachal Pradesh journalist Tongam Rina's well-being, a US-based media watchdog has asked authorities to investigate the crime and bring the perpetrators to justice.

"We are deeply concerned about Tongam Rina's well-being and wish her a swift recovery," said Bob Dietz, Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) Asia programme coordinator.

"Journalists working in the northeast states of India are vulnerable to attacks that too often go unpunished. We urge police in Arunachal Pradesh to investigate this crime and bring the perpetrators to justice," Dietz said in a statement.

CPJ said authorities must immediately investigate the Sunday's attack on Rina and ensure the perpetrators are brought to justice.

Gunmen shot Rina, 34, of the Arunachal Times from close range when she was entering her office.

Rina was in critical condition on Tuesday in a local hospital, according to news reports.