Thadou Community International rejects ‘False Narratives’ on killing of Thadou Christian leaders

Thadou Community International (TCI) has strongly rejected what it described as “false, baseless and misleading narratives” surrounding the killing of three leaders of the Thadou Baptist Association India (TBAI) in the May 13 ambush in Manipur.
In a statement issued today, TCI accused certain Kuki groups and individuals, including Tony Singsit, of spreading propaganda and distorting facts regarding the attack in which TBAI President Rev. Dr. Vumthang Sitlhou, Finance Secretary Rev. Kaigoulun Lhouvum and Pastor Paogoulun Sitlhou were killed, while five others sustained injuries.
TCI alleged that the victims were specifically targeted because of their role in promoting Thadou identity, language and religious institutions independent of Kuki organisations. The statement maintained that the TBAI is a distinct Thadou Christian body and not affiliated with Kuki church organisations such as the Kuki Christian Church or Kuki Baptist Convention.
The organisation further claimed that tensions between Thadou and Kuki groups have historical roots dating back several decades, particularly over issues relating to identity, language and church administration. It alleged that several Thadou organisations and leaders advocating a distinct Thadou identity have faced intimidation and threats from Kuki militant-linked networks.
Referring to the May 13 ambush, TCI stated that the attack took place in a Kuki militant-dominated area between Kotlen and Kotzim villages and alleged that the convoy carrying the TBAI leaders was selectively targeted while other vehicles passing through the area remained unharmed. It further claimed that the victims had been stopped and registered at militant checkpoints before the attack.
The statement also referred to previous incidents involving threats allegedly issued to Thadou leaders after the Guwahati Thadou Convention held in November 2024, where participants reaffirmed that “Thadou is distinct from Kuki.” According to TCI, some injured victims in the ambush had attended the convention.
TCI further alleged that Rev. Vumthang Sitlhou had recently declined participation in a “Kuki flag” hoisting programme and had advocated peace, opposed violence, illegal poppy cultivation and drug abuse, besides supporting efforts for independent Thadou religious and cultural identity.
The organisation also linked the killing to earlier incidents involving attacks on Thadou identity advocates, including the 2025 killing of Thadou Literature Society Assam chairman Nehkam Jomhao.
Rejecting allegations made against Naga militant groups in connection with the ambush, TCI stated that the groups named had denied involvement. It claimed that no substantive response had been given by Kuki militant organisations operating in the area regarding allegations levelled against them.
Calling for an impartial probe, TCI demanded that the National Investigation Agency (NIA) investigate all possible angles, including the role of militant groups operating in the area and individuals allegedly possessing knowledge about the perpetrators.
TCI also appealed to the public not to be misled by what it termed politically motivated propaganda and reiterated that the Thadou community possesses a distinct identity, language, culture and history separate from the “Kuki” label.
The organisation urged authorities to ensure that all those involved in the killings, including the masterminds behind the attack, are identified and brought to justice without delay.