The Federation of Haomee has stated that the upcoming State-level Shirui Lily Festival, scheduled to be held from the 20th to the 24th of this month, will have visitors from various other places, including foreign tourists. It is high time now that the festival should be upgraded to an international level, and the state government should start making efforts for the next edition in 2026.
The government now needs to highlight the security arrangements made so far for public security and safety, and it should facilitate free and fearless movement of visitors. The government should also initiate action against those who tried to sabotage the festival by issuing threat press notes.
The Federation has also called upon the Government of Manipur to guarantee security and the continued celebration of the annual Shirui Lily Festival, amidst increasing concerns of communal tensions and potential threats posed by armed groups. The Federation has urged the state authorities to safeguard the festival’s sanctity and ensure public participation without fear.
Highlighting past disturbances and the alleged involvement of Kuki groups in disrupting the festival, the Federation expressed concern over the safety of the Meetei community during the event. It warned that if threats persist or the festival is manipulated for political or communal purposes, the public might be deterred from participating.
Citing previous attacks, including references to alleged support by external groups and terrorists, the Federation called for preventive measures and action from the government to stop such disruptions in the future.
The Federation emphasized that the Shirui Lily Festival should not be politicized or communalized and must continue peacefully with full support from the Manipur Government. It also urged the state to take concrete steps to ensure that such festivals are protected and celebrated inclusively.
President of the Federation of Haomee, Sapamcha Jadumani, signed the statement, reaffirming their stance that the 2025 edition of the Shirui Lily Festival must be conducted with proper security arrangements and without interference.
