IT News
Imphal, Nov 24:
In response to the joint statement issued on November 19, 2024, by ten non-Naga tribal MLAs of Manipur, the Thadou Inpi Manipur (TIM) has released a detailed rejoinder expressing its position on the matter. TIM, the apex body representing the Thadou tribe, criticized the remarks made in the MLAs’ statement, particularly the characterization of certain groups as “fringe elements claiming to represent Thadou and Hmar tribes.” TIM emphasized its legitimate authority to address Thadou community affairs and questioned whether the MLAs truly represented their constituencies or merely specific tribal interests.
Thadou Inpi Manipur alleged that the statement appeared to be orchestrated by a faction of Churachandpur-based Kuki supremacist MLAs, with some signatories reportedly unaware of its content. The organization condemned any interference in Thadou affairs without consultation and urged MLAs to prioritize unity and peace over divisive rhetoric. Thadou Inpi Manipur called on all elected leaders to avoid aligning with groups promoting violence and instead work toward peace and development.
The organization also criticized the MLAs for what it described as inconsistent messaging. While the MLAs called for steps to restore peace, they simultaneously dismissed the Thadou community’s positive engagement with the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) peace initiatives. Thadou Inpi Manipur condemned this as a lack of wisdom and sincerity, urging the MLAs to retract disparaging remarks about the Thadou community if they considered themselves impartial representatives.
Further, Thadou Inpi Manipur accused the MLAs of political opportunism, highlighting their reluctance to resign from the Assembly or withdraw support from the government they criticized. Thadou Inpi Manipur noted the contradiction in the MLAs’ continued participation in legislative processes despite their calls for a separate administration.
Thadou Inpi Manipur reiterated its commitment to peace, condemning all forms of violence, and called on leaders from all communities to prioritize the welfare of Manipur’s people over narrow political agendas. It urged the government, elected representatives, and community leaders to work collectively toward ending violence and restoring normalcy.
Finally, Thadou Inpi Manipur clarified its stance on the Thadou identity, asserting that the Thadou people are a distinct ethnic group, separate from the Kuki community. Thadou Inpi Manipur called on media organizations and other entities to recognize its status as the legitimate representative of the Thadou tribe and refrain from engaging with unauthorized groups claiming to represent Thadou interests.
