Tuiṭhaphai, May 22, 2025, Virthli (ONP): In response to recent controversy surrounding the display of the Zomi Cultural Flag during a Passing Out Parade at the Assam Rifles Training Centre in Sukovi, Nagaland, Manipur MLA Vungzagin Valte has issued a formal clarification to the Director General of Assam Rifles, urging against any disciplinary action on the matter.
The flag in question, which was displayed during the May 17, 2025, ceremony, had drawn criticism and allegations that it represented an insurgent group. In a letter dated May 22, 2025, Valte clarified that the flag is in fact a cultural emblem adopted in 2019 by World Zomi leaders in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. It represents the nine tribes and communities under the Zomi nomenclature.
"The Zomi Cultural Flag is not an insurgent’s Flag as alleged by someone with vested interests," Valte stated. He further emphasized that the flag's adoption was part of a cultural affirmation process, coinciding with the State Government’s recognition of "Zomi Nam Ni" as a Restricted Holiday in Manipur.
The MLA acknowledged that due to a lack of awareness, well-wishers might have been seen photographing the flag during the parade, an act he attributed to cultural pride rather than political defiance.
“I kindly request that you do not initiate disciplinary action based on this matter,” the letter concluded.
The clarification was also copied to key government figures and media outlets including Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Press Information Bureau Home Affairs, Eastern Command of the Indian Army, the Raj Bhavan in Manipur, and regional media outlet NE Live TV.
