AT clarifies over Salai Taret flag at Shirui Hill, calls for unity
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, May 24 2025: Arambai Tenggol (AT) Unit 58 Cobra team's control room has issued a clarification on Saturday in response to recent allegations surrounding an incident at Shirui Hills, calling out what it termed as misinformation and misinterpretation that could threaten the peaceful coexistence between the Meetei and Naga communities.

The statement expressed regret that the Tangkhul Katamnao Saklong (TKS) had been misled by "inaccurate and misleading information" allegedly circulated by a Facebook page handler operating under the name "Manipur Stylish" .

AT stressed that in sensitive matters of this nature, verifying the authenticity of sources was crucial before arriving at 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 Meetei and Naga communities," it stated.

Reiterating that Shirui Lily is the state flower of Manipur, the clarification emphasised that the flower represents the collective identity of the state and is not the exclusive heritage of any one community.

The festival itself was officially organised by the Government of Manipur as part of a cultural celebration aligned with state initiatives.

AT reaffirmed its commitment to the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Manipur, stating, "Arambai Tenggol, Unit 58 COBRA, firmly upholds the idea of a united Manipur" .

Responding to the controversy over the display of the Salai Taret (Seven Clan) flag at the event, the statement argued that the image was being "unnecessarily politicised" .

It clarified that the flag represents the unity and peaceful coexistence of the indigenous clans of Manipur and is a regular feature at expeditions, sporting events, and cultural functions, whether in India or abroad.

"Displaying this flag in 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," the group asserted.

The clarification also addressed the content of slogans heard in the video footage from the event.

It stated that the slogans - "Ema Leibak Na Yaifare", "Long Live Manipur", and "Shirui Ema Na Yaifare" - were expressions of love and reverence for the land and its people.

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

We urge TKS and all concerned individuals to examine the context of the video with care and objectivity," the group appealed.

Highlighting a message of unity, Arambai Tenggol stated that both the valley of Manipur and its people embrace and honour peaceful coexistence among all indigenous communities who respect the unity and integrity of the state.

The group also defended the wearing of traditional dress and symbols at the event, stating that such attire forms an integral part of cultural identity and is a lawful expression of pride.

"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 added.

Expressing deep respect for the Tangkhul community, their customs, and sacred sites, the group said, "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" .

Calling for a broader understanding and unity across communities, Arambai Tenggol urged all groups 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" .

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