Source: The Sangai Express
Tamenglong, February 05, 2009:
War of words over celebrating Lui-Ngai-Ni festival at Tamenglong has intensified between the Zeliangrong Union, the Zeliangrong Baudi and their supporters.
A statement issued by the Zeliangrong Union asserted that the Lui-Ngai-Ni festival would be celebrated only at district level since the law and order situation is not favorable to hold big events.
Informing that Lui-Ngai-Ni celebration (district level) at Tamenglong would be organized by the Zeliangrong Union; it conveyed that no individual or organization would be allowed to organize the State level festival in Tamenglong district.
Meanwhile a press re lease issued by ZYF (AMN) reacting to the reported statement of UNC that they have decided at Chandel last year to hold the Lui Ngai-Ni festival at Tameng long this year, asserted that UNC did not invite Zeliangrong Union to Chandel Lui-Ngai-Ni festival but Zeliangrong Baudi.
Alleging that Zeliang rong Baudi is not recognized by Zeliangrong peo ple, it conveyed that the ZU is against Zeliangrong Baudi hosting the festival in Tamenglong district but not against Lui-Ngai-Ni festival as such.
On the other hand, local organizing committee of Lui-Ngai-Ni 2009 constituted by the Zeliangrong Baudi informed that preparations for the State level Lui-Ngai-Ni festival are in full swing.
Asserting that the festival will be organized successfully in Tamenglong district Hqs with public support, it said that the Zeliangrong people are more than happy to host the seed sowing festival.
While lamenting that some 'vest interest individuals' in the name of Zeliangrong Union are issuing 'childish statements', the committee recalled that these same people boycotted last years's Lui Ngai-Ni festival only for name's sake and the celebration was a success with many Zeliangrong people participating in it.
Another press release issued by the Zeliangrong Baudi informed that it is hosting Lui-Ngai-Ni festival this time and is ready to welcome all delegates.
Recalling that Zeliang rong cultural troupes, the general public and leaders led by Zeliangrong Baudi participated in Lui-Ngai-Ni festival at Chandel last year despite the boycott call given by Zeliangrong Union, it decried the alleged unauthorized and irresponsible statements issued by individuals/groups with vested interest.