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Time of India
24-05-2025
- Politics
- Time of India
Shirui flag row: Meitei group rejects provocation claims
1 2 Imphal: Following widespread condemnation by Manipur-based Tangkhul Naga organisations regarding the display of Meiteis' seven-coloured flag (Salai Taret) and raising of slogans atop Shirui hill peak by members of Arambai Tenggol, the Meitei organisation on Saturday said that misleading content on social media had created unnecessary confusion. Arambai Tenggol issued a statement indicating that Tangkhul Naga apex student body Tankhul Katamnao Long (TKS) had been influenced by incorrect information distributed by the Facebook page 'Manipur Stylish'. The controversy erupted after a photo went viral on Friday night, showing Arambai Tenggol members in traditional attire holding the Meiteis' seven-coloured flag while raising slogans such as 'Long live Manipur' and 'Mother Shirui be blessed.' "In sensitive matters such as this, we believe it is imperative to verify the authenticity of sources before arriving at hasty conclusions. Misinterpretation of such events only fuels division, and it is evident that certain elements are working with the intent to disrupt peaceful coexistence between the Meitei and Naga communities," Arambai Tenggol Unit 58 COBRA stated in a press communiqué. The organisation emphasised that Shirui Lily represents the entire state's identity rather than a specific community, noting that the event was officially organised by the Manipur govt with participants engaging in cultural celebrations. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like 40대 이상이고 PC가 있으세요? 그럼 이 게임을 정말 좋아하실 거예요! Sea of Conquest 플레이하기 Undo Arambai Tenggol, supporting a unified Manipur and committed to maintaining the state's territorial integrity, stated that the image showing members with the 'Salai Taret' flag is being overly politicised. "Displaying this flag in Shirui Hills does not, and should not, be construed as a territorial claim or provocation. Just as carrying the flag in the United States, Europe, or the Himalayas does not imply ownership of those regions, its presence here signifies cultural continuity, not confrontation," it added. The organisation urged TKS and others to consider the video's context objectively, clarifying that their intention was to support traditions peacefully rather than cause offence. The GPRN's Wung-Tangkhul Region secretariat condemned Arambai Tenggol's Cobra Team Unit 58's actions during the Shirui Lily Festival in Ukhrul district. On Saturday, WTR criticised the group's display of the 'Salai Taret' flag on Shirui peak, describing it as an intrusion into Tangkhul territory. "The 'Salai Taret' flag has no cultural, historical, or political association with the Tangkhul people," the statement asserted, adding that such acts only reflect Arambai Tenggol's 'war-mongering' nature. WTR demanded a public apology from Arambai Tenggol within 48 hours, warning of consequences otherwise. Previously, TKS called the act provocative and disrespectful to Tangkhul Naga identity and territory. "The Shirui Lily Festival is a solemn celebration of our rare endemic flower, our land, and the enduring spirit of the Tangkhul Naga people," the TKS said adding that such act is a 'symbolic aggression in sacred Tangkhul territory is a calculated attempt to disrupt peace and politicise a neutral cultural platform." TKS disputed the seven-coloured Meitei flag's representation of Manipur, affirming their commitment to the sky-blue Naga flag as their symbol of political aspirations. "We will not tolerate any attempt to politicise our sacred spaces or challenge the historical and cultural ownership of our land," the student union warned.
The Print
24-05-2025
- Politics
- The Print
Shirui Hills flag row: Meitei organisation Arambai Tenggol rejects provocation claims
The controversy erupted after a photo went viral on Friday night, showing Arambai Tenggol members in traditional attire holding the Meitei's seven-coloured flag while raising slogans such as 'Long live Manipur' and 'Mother Shirui be blessed.' The image, originally posted by a Facebook page named 'Manipur Stylish,' was accompanied by a caption that read: 'We, the Arambai Tenggol, raised the SALAI TARET Flags as a bold declaration that Arambai Tenggol stands strong across every corner of our land. This is our sacred soil – no other community has the right to stake any claim over the land of Manipur.' This caption sparked outrage among members of the Tangkhul Naga community, who viewed it as inflammatory and disrespectful. It emphasised that the act should not be interpreted as a territorial claim or provocation. Imphal, May 24 (PTI) Following widespread condemnation by Manipur-based Tangkhul Naga organisations regarding the display of Meitei's seven-coloured flag and raising of slogans atop Shirui hill peak by members of Arambai Tenggol, the Meitei organisation on Saturday asserted that misleading content on social media had created unnecessary confusion. Arambai Tenggol's clarification came after Tangkhul Naga apex student body Tankhul Katamnao Long strongly condemned the incident, which took place at the venue of ongoing 5th State-Level Shirui Lily festival in Ukhurl district. In a statement, Arambai Tenggol said, 'It is deeply unfortunate that the Tangkhul Katamnao Saklong has been misled by inaccurate and misleading information circulated by a Facebook page. In sensitive matters such as this, we believe it is imperative to verify the authenticity of sources before arriving at hasty conclusions.' 'Misinterpretation of such events only fuels division, and it is evident that certain elements are working with the intent to disrupt peaceful coexistence between the Meitei and Naga communities' it said. It also clarified the symbolism behind the event and the flag. 'Shirui Lily is the state flower of Manipur, symbolising the collective identity of the state and not belonging to any single community. The event was officially organised by the state government and participants were merely engaging in cultural celebration within the framework of the state's initiatives,' it said. 'The image in question, showing members holding the Salai Taret (Seven Clan) flag, is being unnecessarily politicised,' it said, adding the flag symbolises the unity and peaceful coexistence of indigenous clans of Manipur and is a regular feature at expeditions, sporting events and cultural occasions whether in India or abroad. 'Displaying this flag in Shirui Hills does not, and should not, be construed as a territorial claim or provocation, it added. 'Carrying the flag in the United States, Europe, or the Himalayas does not imply ownership of those regions, its presence here signifies cultural continuity, not confrontation,' it said. The organisation also asserted that slogans in the viral video footage does not contain any content that disrespects or threatens any community. 'We urge TKS and all concerned individuals to examine the context of the video with care and objectivity. The valley of Manipur, and Arambai Tenggol, embrace and honour the spirit of peaceful coexistence among all indigenous communities who respect the unity and integrity of Manipur,' it said. 'We hold deep respect for the indigenous Tangkhul community, their customs, and their sacred hills. 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 We appeal to all communities to view our actions as part of a peaceful cultural expression, an expression protected under law, and essential in a democratic, pluralistic society like Manipur,' it said. Condemning Arambai Tenggol for the incident, Tangkhul Katamnao Long said, 'The Shirui Lily Festival is a solemn celebration of our rare endemic flower, our land, and the enduring spirit of the Tangkhul Naga people' and 'to carry out this kind of symbolic aggression in sacred Tangkhul territory is a calculated attempt to disrupt peace and politicise a neutral cultural platform.' The organisation warned that any repetition of such 'reckless and inflammatory' action will not go unchallenged. 'While the Tangkhul people have traditionally welcomed all visitors to the Shirui Lily Festival with open arms, their hospitality must not be mistaken for weakness,' it added. PTI COR MNB This report is auto-generated from PTI news service. ThePrint holds no responsibility for its content.
Hindustan Times
24-05-2025
- Politics
- Hindustan Times
Shirui Hills flag row: Meitei organisation Arambai Tenggol rejects provocation claims
Imphal, Following widespread condemnation by Manipur-based Tangkhul Naga organisations regarding the display of Meitei's seven-coloured flag and raising of slogans atop Shirui hill peak by members of Arambai Tenggol, the Meitei organisation on Saturday asserted that misleading content on social media had created unnecessary confusion. It emphasised that the act should not be interpreted as a territorial claim or provocation. The controversy erupted after a photo went viral on Friday night, showing Arambai Tenggol members in traditional attire holding the Meitei's seven-coloured flag while raising slogans such as "Long live Manipur" and "Mother Shirui be blessed." The image, originally posted by a Facebook page named 'Manipur Stylish,' was accompanied by a caption that read: "We, the Arambai Tenggol, raised the SALAI TARET Flags as a bold declaration that Arambai Tenggol stands strong across every corner of our land. This is our sacred soil - no other community has the right to stake any claim over the land of Manipur." This caption sparked outrage among members of the Tangkhul Naga community, who viewed it as inflammatory and disrespectful. Arambai Tenggol's clarification came after Tangkhul Naga apex student body Tankhul Katamnao Long strongly condemned the incident, which took place at the venue of ongoing 5th State-Level Shirui Lily festival in Ukhurl district. In a statement, Arambai Tenggol said, "It is deeply unfortunate that the Tangkhul Katamnao Saklong has been misled by inaccurate and misleading information circulated by a Facebook page. In sensitive matters such as this, we believe it is imperative to verify the authenticity of sources before arriving at hasty conclusions." "Misinterpretation of such events only fuels division, and it is evident that certain elements are working with the intent to disrupt peaceful coexistence between the Meitei and Naga communities" it said. It also clarified the symbolism behind the event and the flag. "Shirui Lily is the state flower of Manipur, symbolising the collective identity of the state and not belonging to any single community. The event was officially organised by the state government and participants were merely engaging in cultural celebration within the framework of the state's initiatives," it said. "The image in question, showing members holding the Salai Taret flag, is being unnecessarily politicised," it said, adding the flag symbolises the unity and peaceful coexistence of indigenous clans of Manipur and is a regular feature at expeditions, sporting events and cultural occasions whether in India or abroad. "Displaying this flag in Shirui Hills does not, and should not, be construed as a territorial claim or provocation, it added. "Carrying the flag in the United States, Europe, or the Himalayas does not imply ownership of those regions, its presence here signifies cultural continuity, not confrontation," it said. The organisation also asserted that slogans in the viral video footage does not contain any content that disrespects or threatens any community. "We urge TKS and all concerned individuals to examine the context of the video with care and objectivity. The valley of Manipur, and Arambai Tenggol, embrace and honour the spirit of peaceful coexistence among all indigenous communities who respect the unity and integrity of Manipur," it said. "We hold deep respect for the indigenous Tangkhul community, their customs, and their sacred hills. 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 We appeal to all communities to view our actions as part of a peaceful cultural expression, an expression protected under law, and essential in a democratic, pluralistic society like Manipur," it said. Condemning Arambai Tenggol for the incident, Tangkhul Katamnao Long said, "The Shirui Lily Festival is a solemn celebration of our rare endemic flower, our land, and the enduring spirit of the Tangkhul Naga people" and "to carry out this kind of symbolic aggression in sacred Tangkhul territory is a calculated attempt to disrupt peace and politicise a neutral cultural platform." The organisation warned that any repetition of such "reckless and inflammatory" action will not go unchallenged. "While the Tangkhul people have traditionally welcomed all visitors to the Shirui Lily Festival with open arms, their hospitality must not be mistaken for weakness," it added.
Time of India
15-05-2025
- Health
- Time of India
SC expresses concern over branding entire community of transgenders as 'risky' blood donors
New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Wednesday expressed concern on branding an entire community of transgenders as "risky" as blood donors, and asked the Centre address their concerns of discrimination. "Are we going to brand all transgenders as risky and stigmatise them. You cannot say that all transgenders are indulging in sexual activity," said a bench of Justices Surya Kant and N Kotiswar Singh. The apex court was hearing petition challenging the constitutional validity of Section 12 and 51 of Blood Donor guidelines, 2017, which has imposed a blanket ban on transgender persons from donating blood. The petition also challenged guidelines issued by the National Blood Transfusion Council (NBTC), which prevented transgender persons, men having sex with men (MSM) and female sex workers from donating blood for being at "high risk" for HIV, Hepatitis B or C infections. Additional Solicitor General (ASG) Aishwarya Bhati, appearing for Centre, said that the guidelines are not intended to stigmatise anyone but have been prepared by NBTC, which comprises doctors and experts, with scientific temper and keeping public health and welfare in mind. To this, the bench remarked that it was worried about the element of discrimination against transgenders and that they have been isolated and excluded. "Just think of something that such feeling does not come, and health standards are not compromised," said the bench as it gave time to the Centre to address transgenders concerns of discrimination without compromising on medical precautions. The apex court said that with changing times, new technologies have emerged and there could be a way out to ensure any possibility of infections is checked and contained. Already transgenders suffer from severe biases and prejudices, does this guidelines not further it, said the bench. ASG Bhati assured the bench that she will raise the court's suggestion to the experts. Bhati also apprised the bench that once blood is donated it goes directly to blood banks and there are vulnerable persons, such as thalassemic patients, who entirely depend on blood banks. "As a group, transgenders are considered a high-risk group the world over, with certain exceptions. There is a period within which infection has to be identified, and the risk window has to be carefully considered. Nobody can claim to have a fundamental right to donate blood. These guidelines must be seen from the perspective of public health as the idea is not to stigmatise anyone," Bhati added. The petition filed by Manipur-based transgender and social activist Thangjam Santa Singh, termed the guidelines unconstitutional for discriminating persons based on gender identity.
India Gazette
14-05-2025
- Health
- India Gazette
SC expresses concern over branding entire community of transgenders as
New Delhi [India], May 14 (ANI): The Supreme Court on Wednesday expressed concern on branding an entire community of transgenders as 'risky' as blood donors, and asked the Centre address their concerns of discrimination. 'Are we going to brand all transgenders as risky and stigmatise them. You cannot say that all transgenders are indulging in sexual activity,' said a bench of Justices Surya Kant and N Kotiswar Singh. The apex court was hearing petition challenging the constitutional validity of Section 12 and 51 of Blood Donor guidelines, 2017, which has imposed a blanket ban on transgender persons from donating blood. The petition also challenged guidelines issued by the National Blood Transfusion Council (NBTC), which prevented transgender persons, men having sex with men (MSM) and female sex workers from donating blood for being at 'high risk' for HIV, Hepatitis B or C infections. Additional Solicitor General (ASG) Aishwarya Bhati, appearing for Centre, said that the guidelines are not intended to stigmatise anyone but have been prepared by NBTC, which comprises doctors and experts, with scientific temper and keeping public health and welfare in mind. To this, the bench remarked that it was worried about the element of discrimination against transgenders and that they have been isolated and excluded. 'Just think of something that such feeling does not come, and health standards are not compromised,' said the bench as it gave time to the Centre to address transgenders concerns of discrimination without compromising on medical precautions. The apex court said that with changing times, new technologies have emerged and there could be a way out to ensure any possibility of infections is checked and contained. Already transgenders suffer from severe biases and prejudices, does this guidelines not further it, said the bench. ASG Bhati assured the bench that she will raise the court's suggestion to the experts. Bhati also apprised the bench that once blood is donated it goes directly to blood banks and there are vulnerable persons, such as thalassemic patients, who entirely depend on blood banks. 'As a group, transgenders are considered a high-risk group the world over, with certain exceptions. There is a period within which infection has to be identified, and the risk window has to be carefully considered. Nobody can claim to have a fundamental right to donate blood. These guidelines must be seen from the perspective of public health as the idea is not to stigmatise anyone,' Bhati added. The petition filed by Manipur-based transgender and social activist Thangjam Santa Singh, termed the guidelines unconstitutional for discriminating persons based on gender identity. (ANI)
