The National Socialist Council of Nagalim (Isak-Muivah), the predominant armed faction among the Naga groups, expressed strong disapproval on Saturday regarding the Meitei group Arambai Tenggol's alleged act of raising a Meitei flag on a peak in Manipur that holds significant cultural value for the Tangkhul Naga community.

Specifically, the NSCN-IM criticized members of the Arambai Tenggol’s Cobra Team-Unit 58 for displaying a seven-colored Meitei flag at Shirui peak, located in the Ukhrul district. This incident sparked controversy during the ongoing Shirui Lily Festival, a cultural celebration organized by the state tourism department.

The Naga armed faction stated that the Arambai Tenggol had 'courted controversy at the wrong time and wrong place' with this action, asserting that the flag 'has no connection with the Tangkhuls whatsoever.'

In a firm statement, the NSCN-IM demanded that Arambai Tenggol issue an 'unqualified apology' within 48 hours for what they termed an unwarranted intrusion at Shirui peak.

The Tangkhul Katamnao Saklong, the leading student organization of the Tangkhul community, echoed these sentiments, labeling the act as a 'grave provocation' and asserting that the flag's display was both reckless and inflammatory.

They emphasized, 'We will not tolerate any attempts to politicize our sacred spaces or challenge the historical and cultural ownership of our land.' The student body further stated, 'The Tangkhul Naga people have never and will never accept any imposed symbols, flags, or slogans that undermine our identity and rights.'

In response, the Arambai Tenggol defended their actions, claiming that the image of their members with the flag was being politicized unnecessarily. They clarified that the flag represents the unity and peaceful coexistence of the indigenous clans of Manipur and is commonly seen at various expeditions, sporting events, and cultural gatherings, both domestically and internationally.

The Meitei group expressed their respect for the Tangkhul community and their sacred sites, stating, '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.'

Additionally, the Shirui Lily Festival faced scrutiny on May 20 when security personnel reportedly instructed a group of 20 journalists in Imphal East to conceal the 'Manipur State Transport' sign on their government bus while en route to cover the festival in Ukhrul. Following this incident, the governor of Manipur ordered an inquiry on May 21.