The Assam Rifles on Monday (May 19, 2025) took note of a photograph on social media platforms showing a group of men in the uniform of the paramilitary force posing with the flag of an extremist group.
Tagging the Prime Minister’s Office and Home Minister Amit Shah among others, an X user posted the photo of 21 men in the Assam Rifles uniform posing during a passing out parade with the flag of the Zomi Revolutionary Army.
The outfit is one of the armed groups accused of having been involved in Manipur’s ethnic conflict that broke out in May 2023 and took at least 250 lives.
“The authenticity of the photograph is being verified. Based on confirmation, suitable disciplinary action will be initiated against all the defaulters,” the Assam Rifles posted on X.
“The Assam Rifles remains committed to maintaining the ethos of the force,” the paramilitary force said, responding to the X user’s post.
“A National Parade or a Rebel Showcase? Assam Rifles Passing Out Parade, young recruits, symbols of discipline and national service, were seen alongside a flag of the Zomi Revolutionary Army (ZRA), an armed rebel group based in Myanmar. Why was this flag allowed at a government-run military ceremony under the @HMOIndia?” the user wrote.
“This isn’t just symbolic confusion. It undermines national integrity and sends a troubling message. The people of India expect clarity, loyalty, and accountability from those who wear the uniform,” the post further read.
Published – May 20, 2025 01:35 am IST
