The Thadou Inpi Manipur (TIM) has strongly rejected what it terms as “false, misleading, and provocative” allegations made by the Kuki Inpi Manipur (KIM) regarding its August 6 visit to Imphal for the Road to Peace in Manipur initiative.
In a detailed statement, TIM accused KIM of attempting to distort history, undermine the Thadou indigenous identity, and provoke communal tensions. It reaffirmed its commitment to peace and clarified its position on several contentious issues.
Key Points from TIM’s Statement
| Issue | TIM’s Position |
|---|---|
| Identity | Thadous are a distinct indigenous group, not subordinate to any Kuki structure or ideology. |
| History | TIM’s lineage predates the Kuki–Naga conflict, tracing back to the Thadou National Council (1984) and Thadou Inpi (1992). |
| Peace Process | Lasting peace must include all indigenous communities, not just Kuki/Zomi/Hmar groups in talks with the Government of India. |
| KIM Allegations | Branded as “unconstitutional, baseless, and provocative.” |
| Security Concerns | Warned against Kuki radicalism, use of religious platforms for hate speech, and extremist calls like “Kuki quotas in heaven.” |
| Call to Action | Urged government and indigenous groups to reject divisive rhetoric and support an inclusive, indigenous-led peace process. |
Criticism of KIM and Militancy
TIM accused KIM of falsely portraying itself as the voice of all SoO (Suspension of Operations) groups while ignoring other indigenous perspectives. It also condemned what it sees as Kuki supremacist ideology, linking it to over 40 armed militant groups operating in Thadou-inhabited areas.
The statement expressed alarm over the “radical use of religious platforms” to incite violence, naming several prominent Kuki leaders accused of delivering hate speech against Thadous and other communities.
Appeal to Government and Public
TIM called on the Government of India to address Kuki radicalism with the same resolve applied to other extremist ideologies nationwide. It warned that continued appeasement of Kuki supremacist forces could force the Thadou community to defend itself.
Reiterating its role as a peace champion, TIM urged all stakeholders to back the August 6 TIM–Manipur CSOs Covenant of Understanding as a “historic breakthrough” in indigenous unity.
