ATDUM, UDDO urge for inclusivity of PwDs in Shirui Festival
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, May 16 2025: All Tribal Disables' Union, Manipur (ATDUM) and Ukhrul District Disables' Organisation (UDDO) expressed disappointment over the tourism director and the Ukhrul deputy commissioner not according importance in including persons with disabilities (PwD) in the 5th State Level Shirui Festival, 2025.On behalf of the two organisations, ATDUM reportedly submitted a request to the state government through the chief secretary, who is also the chairman of the 5th State Level Shirui Festival, 2025, on April 29, seeking budgetary allocation for organising a 'Disability-Inclusive Event' as part of the festival.

In response, the undersecretary (tourism) issued a letter to the tourism director on May 6, said a joint release, adding that an ATDUM team on Wednesday called on the director at her office, during which the team was informed that the entire festival fund had already been disbursed to the Ukhrul DC, and she had instructed the DC to take appropriate action and consider the proposal.

According to the release, in compliance with the director's instruction, representatives of ATDUM and UDDO met with the Ukhrul DC on Wednesday, at his office.

However, the DC conveyed that no funds had been earmarked for activities related to persons with disabilities in connection with the state level festival.

Subsequently, the ATDUM president held a telephonic discussion with the tourism director, who reiterated that the matter must be pursued with the Ukhrul DC .

"Their failure to recognise and include persons with dis abilities in the festival is not only disheartening but also reflects a clear lack of inclusivity and concern for marginalised sections of society.

The exclusion of persons with disabilities has caused considerable anger and frustration among the tribal disability community, who are now mounting pressure on the leadership to initiate a sit-in protect at the event venue during the festival.

The decision on whether to proceed with the protest will be taken by leaders of ATDUM and UDDO on May 19," it further said.

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