The Assam Rifles is currently verifying the authenticity of a controversial photograph from its May 17 Passing Out Parade (PoP) at the AR Training Centre, Sukovi, which appears to show a flag allegedly linked to the Zomi community displayed during the official event.
In a public statement via its official X handle, the Assam Rifles said, “The authenticity of the photograph is being verified. Based on confirmation, suitable disciplinary action will be initiated against all the defaulters. Assam Rifles remains committed to maintaining the ethos of the force.”
The matter has stirred widespread concern, as it potentially represents a breach of protocol at a sensitive time in Manipur’s socio-political landscape. The display of unapproved flags in military events is viewed as a serious violation of standard procedure, especially in regions where ethnic tensions run deep.
In an apparent attempt to downplay the incident, Thanlon MLA Vungzagin Valte sent a letter to the Director General of Assam Rifles, claiming that the flag in question is not insurgent-linked, but rather the “Zomi Cultural Flag.” Valte’s defense, however, has triggered widespread criticism.
