Is There a Group Threatening the Meitei Community Ahead of the Shirui Festival?
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Synopsis
The Manipur Police have dismissed reports of a threatening group towards the Meitei community ahead of the Shirui Lily Festival, emphasizing security arrangements for the event. The Kuki-Zo Council also disavowed any association with the alleged warnings, reinforcing community cooperation for a safe celebration.
Key Takeaways
- Manipur Police have denied the existence of a threatening group.
- The Kuki-Zo Council distanced itself from the alleged warnings.
- No evidence of the Kuki Zo Village Volunteers Eastern Zone was found.
- Security measures for the Shirui Lily Festival are being planned.
- The festival celebrates the state flower of Manipur and promotes conservation efforts.
Imphal, May 15 (NationPress) The Manipur Police have denied the claims of a group known as the Kuki Zo Village Volunteers Eastern Zone, which allegedly issued a warning to the Meitei community against entering Kuki-dominated regions during the forthcoming Shirui Lily Festival.
The Kuki-Zo Council (KZC), which represents the Kuki-Zo-Hmar tribal community, also distanced itself from the reported warning directed at the Meitei community.
The Manipur Police confirmed that a supposed press release dated May 11 was circulating on various social media platforms and in local news outlets.
“It has been observed by the Manipur Police that a press statement from an unidentified group called Kuki Zo Village Volunteers Eastern Zone is being shared online and in local newspapers. This group has cautioned members of the Meitei community against entering Kuki-inhabited areas during the upcoming Shirui Lily Festival,” the police stated.
The police further indicated that they investigated the claims and found no evidence of such an organization.
As a result, the public is urged not to give credence to such unfounded and baseless press releases from unknown entities. The district police will ensure proper security measures for the public during the Shirui Lily Festival.
The police have requested community cooperation in relation to security arrangements for the festival.
Additionally, the Kuki-Zo Council (KZC) issued a statement clarifying its stance regarding the recent announcement allegedly made by individuals or groups claiming to be Kuki-Zo Village Volunteers, Eastern Zone concerning the Shirui Lily Festival.
The KZC, as a political body dedicated to representing the collective interests of the Kuki-Zo people, stated that it does not partake in or endorse unsolicited statements from individuals or groups acting independently.
Recently, Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla presided over the organizing committee meeting for the Shirui Lily Festival 2025, set to take place in Ukhrul district. The meeting, held at Raj Bhavan, focused on various aspects to ensure the successful organization of the festival, including budget allocation, event scheduling, security protocols, transportation, crowd management, infrastructure, accommodation, cultural programming, promotional strategies, and interdepartmental coordination.
The Shirui Lily Festival, predominantly organized by the Meitei community, is celebrated in honor of the state flower, the Shirui Lily. The event occurs during the peak blooming season of this rare and endangered flower that only grows in Manipur. The Shirui Lily can be found atop the Shirui hills in Ukhrul district and cannot be relocated elsewhere in the world.
The state flower of Manipur fills the atmosphere with its delightful fragrance during the blooming season. The festival is primarily aimed at raising awareness and conserving the endangered state flower.
Moreover, the festival serves as a platform for individuals from diverse communities and tribes to unite, explore the stunning Ukhrul district, and gain deeper insights into the local Tangkhul Naga tribe.
Point of View
It is crucial to ensure impartial reporting on the ongoing events in Manipur. The police's swift denial of the alleged threats and the Kuki-Zo Council's clarification highlight the importance of maintaining community peace and safety ahead of the Shirui Lily Festival. It is essential to foster a spirit of collaboration among the diverse communities to celebrate this unique cultural event.
NationPress
08/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Shirui Lily Festival?
The Shirui Lily Festival is an annual celebration organized primarily by the Meitei community, honoring the state flower of Manipur, the Shirui Lily, which blooms during a specific season.
What did the Manipur Police say regarding the threats?
The Manipur Police have refuted the claims of a group threatening the Meitei community and confirmed that no such organization exists.
What is the role of the Kuki-Zo Council in this situation?
The Kuki-Zo Council clarified that it does not endorse unsolicited communications from unknown groups and aims to represent the collective interests of the Kuki-Zo people.
What measures are being taken for the safety during the festival?
The district police are making security arrangements to ensure the safe movement of the public during the Shirui Lily Festival.
Where is the Shirui Lily found?
The Shirui Lily is found exclusively in Manipur, primarily atop the Shirui hills in Ukhrul district, and is a rare and endangered species.
