What Actions are Manipur Police Taking Regarding Threats to the Meitei Community?
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Synopsis
In a significant move, Manipur Police have launched a major investigation into threats against the Meitei community ahead of the Shirui Lily Festival. With security measures in place, police are actively pursuing leads to ensure safety during this important cultural event.
Key Takeaways
- Manipur Police are actively investigating threats to the Meitei community.
- The Shirui Lily Festival is an important cultural event in Manipur.
- Security measures are in place to ensure public safety.
- Community dialogue is essential for maintaining peace.
- The festival promotes awareness of the endangered Shirui Lily.
Imphal, May 19 (NationPress) The Manipur Police have initiated a significant investigation at the cyber crime police station, aiming to identify individuals behind recent threatening messages directed at the Meitei community. These messages warned against entering Kuki tribal areas during the upcoming Shirui Lily Festival.
Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla presided over a meeting of the organizing committee for the Shirui Lily Festival, set to take place in the Ukhrul district from May 20 to 24.
The journey from Imphal to Ukhrul spans 80 km and traverses several villages inhabited by the Kuki tribal community. A senior police official indicated that unknown individuals and groups, allegedly from the Kuki community, have issued threats primarily via social media to discourage the Meitei community from attending the Shirui Lily Festival.
“Such threats are taken with utmost seriousness and are investigated swiftly. Currently, these groups appear to lack a legitimate presence,” the official stated.
He emphasized that several reputable Kuki tribal organizations have distanced themselves from these unidentified entities.
A criminal case has been filed at the cyber crime police station, and extensive efforts are underway to apprehend those responsible. Comprehensive security measures have been implemented to protect attendees of the Shirui Lily Festival, the official added.
Additionally, the Manipur Police have commenced a search operation and reached out to four neighboring northeastern states—Mizoram, Assam, Nagaland, and Meghalaya—to locate a leader of a Kuki organization who recently issued threats to the Meitei community.
The police reported that Paojakhup Guite, President of the Delhi unit of the Kuki Students’ Organisation (KSO), warned the Meitei community against crossing into the buffer zone to participate in the Shirui Lily Festival, which is celebrated in the Kuki-Zo-Hmar tribal region.
“A video of Guite’s threats was circulated on social media,” the police statement noted, adding that a formal complaint has been filed in the Churachandpur district, with ongoing efforts, including raids in nearby districts, to secure his arrest.
Manipur Police have previously dismissed the existence of a group known as the Kuki Zo Village Volunteers Eastern Zone, which also reportedly warned the Meitei community against entering Kuki-dominated regions during the festival.
The Kuki-Zo Council (KZC), the leading body representing the Kuki-Zo-Hmar tribal community, also did not endorse the warning issued by the so-called 'Kuki Zo Village Volunteers Eastern Zone'.
The Shirui Lily Festival, primarily organized by the Meitei community, celebrates the state flower, Shirui Lily, during its peak blooming season. This rare and endangered flower, found exclusively in Manipur, blooms atop the Shirui hills in Ukhrul district and cannot be replanted elsewhere.
During its blooming season, the state flower fills the air with its delightful fragrance. The festival aims to raise awareness about the conservation of this endangered flower.
The event serves as a platform for various communities and tribes to unite, explore the beautiful Ukhrul district, and gain deeper insights into the Tangkhul Naga tribe residing there.
Point of View
It is crucial to address the rising tensions between communities in Manipur. While the threats posed are alarming, it is essential to foster dialogue and understanding among all groups. The Shirui Lily Festival, a celebration of culture and unity, should serve as a reminder of the importance of coexistence. Authorities must ensure public safety while promoting harmony and respect among diverse communities.
NationPress
08/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Shirui Lily Festival?
The Shirui Lily Festival is an annual event in Manipur celebrating the state flower, Shirui Lily. It involves various cultural programs and aims to raise awareness about the conservation of this endangered flower.
What threats were made against the Meitei community?
Recent threats warned the Meitei community against entering Kuki tribal areas during the Shirui Lily Festival, primarily issued through social media.
How is the Manipur Police responding to these threats?
The Manipur Police have registered a case at the cyber crime police station and are conducting extensive investigations to apprehend those responsible for the threats.
What measures are being taken to ensure security during the festival?
Comprehensive security measures have been implemented, including regular reviews and the deployment of senior officers to supervise security arrangements.
What communities participate in the Shirui Lily Festival?
The festival is primarily organized by the Meitei community but encourages participation from various tribes and communities, promoting unity and cultural exchange.
