Kuki village volunteer groups warn Meitei from entering Kuki areas TMB News Network Imphal, May 14 : Ahead of the upcoming Shirui festival in Tangkhul Naga dominated Ukhrul district, Kuki Zo Village Volunteer Eastern Zone has warned any member of Meitei community from crossing or entering Kuki areas. In a statement, the armed group extended its wishes to the Tangkhul and Naga community in hosting the festival scheduled to take place from May 20 to May 24. The warning comes even as Manipur govt announced its decision to run Manipur state transport buses from Imphal to Ukhrul for the festival. Manipur Police DGP Rajiv Singh had also visited Ukhrul district to review the preparations for the annual festival held to honour the state flower of Shirui (Siroi) Lily which blooms in the hills of Ukhrul district. The route from Imphal to Ukhrul passes through certain Kuki villages including Litan village. The Kuki armed group stated "we strongly advise all members of 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." Meanwhile, reacting to the directives, popular Tangkhul Naga social worker Asang Kashar has strongly condemned it and said "this is directly a challenge to every citizens of Manipur and shows they are against peace." Kashar also questioned why the Centre is silent on this.