Imphal: A group in Manipur has warned Meiteis not to enter the Kuki-majority areas during a five-day festival to be held in Ukhrul district next week.
Ethnic clashes between the two warring sides in the northeastern state have left at least 260 people dead and thousands homeless since May 2023.
"We strongly advise all members of the Meitei community to refrain from entering or crossing our areas at any time. Any violation of this direction will be considered intentional, and individuals shall bear full responsibility for any consequences that may follow," the Kuki Zo Village Volunteer Eastern Zone said in a statement.
People from various parts of the state visit Ukhrul during the Shirui festival, to be held between May 20 and 24. The route from Imphal, where Meiteis are in the majority, to Ukhrul passes through certain villages where Kukis are the dominant force.
In Ukhrul district, however, the Naga tribal people are in majority.
Manipur DGP Rajiv Singh recently visited Ukhrul district to review the preparations for the annual festival held to honour the state flower of Shirui Lily, found in abundance in the hills of Ukhrul district.
Popular Tangkhul Naga social worker Asang Kashar condemned the warning.
"This is directly a challenge to every citizen of Manipur and shows they (Kukis) are against peace," Kashar said.
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