Not territorial claim or provocation, says AT
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, May 24 2025: With regard to its member holding the Salai Taret (seven clan) flag on Shirui peak, the Arambai Tenggol Unit-58 has clarified that displaying the Salai Taret flag on Shirui Hills does not, and should not be construed as a territorial claim or provocation.

Just as carrying the flag in the United States, Europe or the Himalayas does not imply ownership of those regions, its presence here signifies cultural continuity, not confrontation, said a press release issued by Arambai Tenggol Unit 58.Moreover, in the video footage of the event, the slogans clearly heard- Ema Leibak Na Yaifare, Long Live Manipur, Shirui Ema Na Yaifare- are messages of love and reverence for the land and people of Manipur.

They do not contain any content that disrespects or threatens any community.

"We hold deep respect for the indigenous Tangkhul community, their customs and their sacred hills.

Our intent was never to offend or incite but only to stand in solidarity with our traditions, just as others do across our diverse State and Nation", the Arambai Tenggol Unit 58 clarified.

The valley of Manipur and the Arambai Tenggol embrace and honour the spirit of peaceful coexistence among all indigenous communities who respect the unity and integrity of Manipur.

"Our traditional dress and symbols are integral to our cultural identity, and wearing them in public is a lawful expression of our cultural pride, not an act of provocation", it said.

It said that the Tangkhul Katamnao Saklong (TKS) has been misled by inaccurate and misleading information circulated by a Facebook page handler under the name "Manipur Stylish".

In sensitive matters such as this, it is imperative to verify the authenticity of sources before arriving at hasty conclusions.

Misinterpretation of such events only fuels division, and it is evident that certain elements are working with the intent to disrupt peaceful coexistence between the Meitei and Naga communities, it said.

For the record, the Shirui Lily is the State Flower of Manipur, symbolizing the collective identity of the State.

The event was officially organized by the Government of Manipur and participants were merely engaging in cultural celebration within the framework of the State's initiatives, it said.

The Arambai Tenggol Unit 58 then appealed to all communities to view their actions as part of a peaceful cultural expression, an expression protected under law and essential in a democratic pluralistic society like Manipur.

Arambai Tenggol Unit 58 Cobra firmly upholds the idea of a united Manipur and remains committed to preserving the territorial integrity and sovereignty of the State, it added.

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