Condemnation Statement : Attacks on Michael Lamjathang Haokip's residence
- 31st August, 2024 : Thadou Students' Association, General Headquarters (TSA-GHQ) -

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The Thadou Students' Association, General Headquarters (TSA-GHQ), vehemently condemns the heinous attacks on the residence of our President, Mr. T. Michael Lamjathang Haokip at Peniel village, Churachandpur, Manipur at around 12.20 pm on August 31, 2024, barely 5 days after the second attack occurred on August 25, 2024, at 10:45 pm. The first attack happened on May 7, 2023.

He also escaped an attempted assassination on his life in Churachandpur on April 28, 2023 by suspected armed Kuki militants. It appears that all these attacks are carried out by the same well-organized groups with Kuki supremacist agenda. We also condemn the negligence of the district law enforcement officials for failing to prevent today’s attack and for failing to bring to justice the culprits from previous incidents.

The TSA denounces the attempted assassination, arson, vandalism, firing, and assaults on Michael’s home, and demands justice for the heinous act. The incidents are purported to have been carried out by suspected armed Kuki militants.

The TSA-GHQ fails to understand the reason behind the attack on the innocent family consisting of sexagenarian parents, but clearly, they are a repeated self-display of their evil tactics to instill fear in order to advance their nefarious agenda to make themselves the masters and others to become subservient and the slaves for their selfish gains and political control. The attacks are a crime against humanity and unacceptable and unjustified in a civilized society.

The well-coordinated attacks on Michael and his family are an attack on the Thadou tribe and its ethnic identity. Despite facing numerous assassinations attempts and a bounty placed on his life by Kuki militant groups, Mr. Michael remains resolute in his commitment to the cause of the Thadou community.

Various viral videos have surfaced featuring Kuki militants threatening his life, yet he remains undeterred, driven by concerns for his safety and his dedication to the welfare of the Manipur people and the Thadou. It may also be mentioned that he also currently serves as the Spokesperson of BJP for Manipur state.

The presence of innumerable Kuki armed groups has adversely affected the Thadou community especially in Manipur. The unique and distinct Thadou identity has faced a serious threat in the face of unlawful Kuki supremacist activities. By the barrel of guns, the Thadous were subdued and beaten to submission.

With no armed organization of its own to counter anti-Thadou forces and defend itself, the Thadou community is facing a great challenge. During these ominous and chaotic atmospheres, comes this bold, enterprising young man in the form of Mr. T. Michael Lamjathang Haokip who chose to make sacrifices for the protection and survival of the Thadou community.

Michael is a quintessential youth leader who is widely acclaimed for his honesty, boldness in speaking out the truth and his unflinching commitment for the welfare and upliftment of the Thadou tribal community inhabiting in the vast expanses of North-East India and Myanmar, fighting unfazed against all odds in the face of persecution and repeated death threats. His ultimate goal in life is protection and propagation of the customs, cultures, traditions and language of the Thadou community are protected from inimical elements.

In order to defend the interests of his community, he and his family have been subjected to severe threats, intimidation, and persecution from Kuki militants and extremists who function like notorious mafias and gangs. A First Information Report (FIR) has been filed in relation to attacks.

The TSA will no longer tolerate human rights violations perpetrated by Kuki supremacists. We salute and appreciate the family members for their determination. They have endured daily pressure and fear of attacks by underground and Kuki extremist groups, bearing the burden for the cause of the Thadou people. He is a champion of peace and truth, a daring and bold leader who stood firm with integrity, supported by capable and efficient family. We extend our regards and gratitude to the family as well.

The Government of India has the moral obligation to protect him and his community and take steps to secure his life and family members. The TSA-GHQ is also optimistic for a positive response from the Central Government in regards to the Memorandum dated August 30, 2024 submitted to the Hon'ble Union Home Minister.