Ukhrul, May 14: The Wung Tangkhul Region of the Government of the People’s Republic of Nagalim (GPRN) has strongly objected to a recent press communiqué issued by the Kuki-Zo Village Volunteer – Eastern Zone (KZVV-EZ), dated May 11, 2025, which allegedly implied territorial claims over certain villages in the Ukhrul district.
In an official press release issued today, the NSCN expressed concern over the statements made by KZVV-EZ in connection with the upcoming Shirui Lily Festival. While acknowledging and appreciating the expression of goodwill towards the festival and its goal of promoting environmental awareness and sustainable tourism, the NSCN took exception to what it described as “outrageous and provocative” territorial assertions.
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The NSCN alleged that the KZVV-EZ press note suggested that certain areas in Ukhrul inhabited by Kukis were part of a so-called “Kukiland,” which the NSCN categorically rejected. “NSCN shall not tolerate if KZVV-EZ make any wild attempt to disturb the streaming tourists targeting any particular community travelling to Ukhrul/Shirui village. Let this message be loud and clear that the territorial jurisdiction of the so-called Kukiland doesn’t cover even an inch of Naga territory in Ukhrul areas,” added the statement.
NSCN warned that any attempt by the KZVV-EZ to disrupt tourism flows or target specific communities during the Shirui Lily Festival would not be tolerated. The festival, which celebrates the endangered state flower of Manipur, also serves as a platform for raising awareness about environmental conservation and the cultural heritage of the Tangkhul Naga and other Naga communities.
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Labeling the KZVV-EZ’s message as a “direct challenge,” the NSCN cautioned that any similar assertions in print or on social media would be viewed as an affront to both the NSCN and the broader Naga population.