Sihai VA rues Fest venue inclusion sans approval
Source: Chronicle News Service / R Lester Makang

Ukhrul, May 15 2025: Sihai Village Authority has voiced its displeasure with the district administration over the inclusion of 'Sihai Phangrei', a picturesque picnic spot, as one of the venues for the forthcoming state-level Shirui Lily festival, without consulting the landowner.

Addressing a press conference in Ukhrul town on Thursday, Sihai village headman KAS Luingam stated that in previous editions of the festival, the district administration had sought the village authority's consent regarding inclusion of the tourist spot for the celebrations, to which the village had readily agreed.

Sihai VA rues Fest venue inclusion sans approval

"We have always cooperated with the authorities in the larger interest of the festival which we consider as a part of development for all.

However, this year, much to the villagers' dismay, the tourist spot has been designated as a venue without our consent and knowledge," he lamented.

Luingam argued that, in accordance with the customary practices, respect for land ownership is essential.

"But without this recognition, we announce that the villagers will not allow the site to be used during the festival".

He mentioned that the village authority submitted an official representation to Ukhrul Deputy Commissioner on May 5, 2025 regarding the matter.

"Unfortunately, the district administration has ignored our plea to prevent such situations, and no response has been received to date, even as the festival is just days away," he rued.

According to Luingam, in 2023, the District & Sessions Judge of Imphal East instructed the Ukhrul DC and SP to oversee Sihai Phangrei, describing it as a critical site.

He contended that despite this directive, the district administration has shown a lack of concern for the landowner.

"We have no objection to the celebration, which is for the benefit of our community, but ignoring rightful land ownership and hurting the sentiments of the villagers is unacceptable," he stated.

The Sihai chief further clarified that his village does not intend to impose any fees or charges on visitors entering the tourist spot.

"However, we have noticed that during previous celebrations, certain individuals from other village collected Rs 50 from each visitor for access to the site.

We oppose such unscrupulous practices and will not allow them to continue," he asserted.

In previous celebrations, the tourist spot hosted mountain biking, paragliding, camping, and other activities as part of the festival's side events.