Many laud Thadou Convention for historic stand on identity, NRC
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, November 05 2024: Many organisations including the Meitei Leepun, Federation of Civil Society Organisations (FOCS), People's Alliance for peace and progress, Manipur (PAPPM), Joint Committee on Inner Line Permit System (JCILPS) and Kongpal Chanam Leikai Development Organisation (KODO) have lauded the Thadou Tribe Convention stand on the National Register of Citizens (NRC) and "War on Drugs" .

Dubbed as a "historic" event, the Thadou Tribe Convention at Guwahati, recently amid the conflict between Meiteis and Kukis, voiced support for the NRC and the War on Drug campaign of the Government of Manipur.

The convention vociferously asserted the distinct identity of the tribe as Thadou, without any prefix or suffix to it.

"We are not part of the Kuki tribes but a separate, independent entity from Kuki," said the 2-day Thadou Convention held in Guwahati.

Lauding the convention's declaration on the tribe's identity and its stand on the NRC and War on Drugs, the organisations including FOCS, ML and JCILPS said the stance of the tribe is a testament of commitment to coexistence peacefully.

Meitei Leepun, in its statement, said the "commendable stance reinforces our shared commitment to safeguard the interests of indigenous communities in the region" .

"We welcome the Thadou community's support, and we believe this step is a positive move toward restoring stability and security in Manipur," said the ML.

The Federation of Civil Society Organisations (FOCS) said the Thadou convention's declarations reinforce the common goal of communities and idea of Manipur which promotes peaceful coexistence and inclusive development.

The People's Alliance for Peace and Progress, Manipur said the resolutions of the convention stand as a monumental affirmation of the Thadou community's unwavering dedication to preserving its distinct identity, culture, and heritage, showcasing its resilience and unity in the face of historical challenges.

"Your declaration beautifully asserts the Thadou identity as a separate and sovereign cultural entity from the politically motivated Kuki.

By rejecting imposed identities and clarifying the distinctions of the thadou people, you uphold a proud legacy passed down through generations.

This statement not only defends the dignity of the Thadou identity but also strengthens the cultural and historical integrity of Manipur's diverse ethnic landscape", said PAPPM.

Pouring in similar praises for the convention, the JCILPS and KODO said they appreciate the Thadou tribe for taking firm resolutions on their identity and supporting the NRC and War on Drugs.

The Thadou Convention was held from November 1-2 in Guwahati.

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