Ukhrul, May 24, 2025, Virthli (ONP): The Tangkhul Naga Long (TNL), the apex body of the Tangkhul community, has strongly condemned what it described as an “utterly disgraceful and despicable” attempt by Arambai Tengol to politicize the Shirui Lily Festival, calling it a misuse of the event for “petty and dirty political gains.”
In a press statement issued on Friday, TNL President Sword Vashum expressed dismay over what he termed an effort to “tarnish and obfuscate” the spirit and true meaning of the Shirui Lily Festival, which the body asserts is a celebration of “the truth of inexplicable wonders of God’s creations.”
“The tiny innocuous flora called Shirui Lily evokes so much aura and excitement… much more is demanded of us as human beings to promote and enhance the honor and dignity of humanity,” the statement read, urging mutual trust and respect while warning others not to impose or exploit the occasion.
Highlighting historical and cultural distinctions, the TNL also rebuked any attempts to “hyphenate” the Nagas with the valley communities of Manipur, asserting that the Naga people have no common history, legacy, or heritage with the valley population.
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“Our history runs into the span of 2000 years or more,” the statement noted, referencing colonial administrative arrangements that recognized the distinct identity of hill tribes. “We Nagas have no common history with yours… therefore, we should settle for good neighborliness,” it added.
The release ends with a clear message: “What we don’t want done to us by others, we shouldn’t do to others. Please be good to yourselves and back off.”
