TKS decries flag hoisting, communal slogans
Source: Chronicle News Service / R Lester Makang

Ukhrul, May 23 2025: Tangkhul Katamnao Saklong (TKS) has categorically condemned what it termed as "reckless and inflammatory act" of hoisting the Meetei's seven-coloured flag and shouting slogans laced with communal undertones atop the Shirui hills amid the ongoing state-level Shirui Lily festival celebrations.

"We urge all responsible citizens and organisations to reflect seriously on this incident and ensure that such divisive acts are never repeated in the future.

This is essential for the sake of peace, justice, and the genuine spirit of co-existence," stated TKS president Ramreichan Keishing and general secretary PS Ningthingmaya, in a statement issued on Friday.

It stated: "The Shirui Lily Festival is a solemn celebration of our rare endemic flower, our land, and the enduring spirit of the Tangkhul Naga people in particular.

It embodies peace, ecological consciousness, and cultural pride amidst a state long affected by ethnic unrest" .

The apex Tangkhul stustudents' body noted that some individuals reportedly affiliated with the Arambai Tenggol, specifically a faction identifying itself as the Cobra Team - Unit 58 hoisted the Meetei seven-coloured flag and shouted slogans laced with communal undertones atop Shirui peak, describing the same as an act of grave provocation.

"This deliberate political symbolism, carried out in sacred Tangkhul territory, is nothing short of an attempt to disrupt peace and the neutral stand of the Nagas, while asserting territorial and ideological dominance far beyond the confines of the Imphal Valley" .

The TKS continued that it would not tolerate any attempt to politicise the sacred spaces or challenge the historical and cultural ownership of their lands, adding that the Tangkhul Naga people have never and will never accept any imposed symbols, flags, or slogans that undermine our identity and rights.

"We categorically reject the view held by certain individuals that the seven-coloured Meitei flag represents the collective will of Manipur.

Our people have long upheld the sky-blue Naga flag, which is rooted in our political aspirations, historical truths, and distinct identity," it contended, adding that the deliberate act by Arambai Tenggol is not merely an insult but a calculated provocation.

Declaring its stance, the students' organisation said that it will not allow such actions to go unchallenged and that the statement is a stern and final warning.

"Any repetition of this kind of intrusion and political posturing will face strong consequences.

The dignity, history, and territorial integrity of the Tangkhul Naga people are non-negotiable" .

TKS further stated that while the Tangkhul community welcomes all communities to the festival with grace and goodwill, their hospitality should not be mistaken for weakness, nor their silence for consent.

"Let this be understood by all.

The peace of the hills must not be disturbed under the guise of festivity or unity.

TKS stands firm and unwavering in our commitment to defend the honour of our people and land," it added.

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