Assam Rifles bolsters fire-walking festival
In a significant move towards fostering cultural and social harmony in the sensitive border town of Moreh, the Assam Rifles provided comprehensive security and logistical support for the 59th Fire-Walking Festival. The ten-day event, which concluded on Wednesday at the Shree Angala Parmeshwari Shree Muneeshwarar Temple, served as a vibrant symbol of cultural synergy amidst the ongoing efforts to maintain peace in Tengnoupal district.
Organised by the Tamil Sangam, the festival commenced on March 23 and saw a massive turnout of devotees not only from the Tamil, Meetei, Nepali, and Bihari communities but also from neighbouring Myanmar. The tradition, rooted in faith and resilience, transformed the temple premises into a hub of social integration.
“The successful conduct of the festival stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of unity and cooperation in the region,” a senior official remarked.
Assam Rifles personnel provided robust security arrangements that ensured a peaceful environment for all rituals, facilitated the smooth movement of devotees across the border township, and organised a daily community kitchen (langar) serving approximately 450 to 500 devotees throughout the festival period.
The event was graced by the Deputy Inspector General of Assam Rifles, whose presence was hailed by local leaders as a vital factor in ensuring the stability of Moreh. Local residents and members of the Tamil Sangam expressed their gratitude for the sustained outreach, noting that such initiatives go a long way in strengthening the bond between the “Sentinels of the North East” and the civilian population.
The festival concluded with community feasts across various localities, reflecting a collective resolve to preserve regional traditions and restore a sense of normalcy to the area.
