Open Letter to Shri Amit Shah, Hon’ble Union Home Minister, and the People of India
- 24th March 2025 :: Thadou Inpi Manipur -

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Respected Sir and all,

Greetings from Thadou Inpi Manipur.

We honor the memory of those lost in the tragic violence in Manipur and extend our deepest empathy to the survivors. We fervently hope for lasting peace, justice, and respect for human rights.

The violence that erupted on May 3, 2023, has caused immense suffering, particularly to the Thadou community. While the situation has improved, much remains to be done for resettlement and lasting peace.

Manipur is home to multiple ethnic groups, including Meitei, Meitei-Pangal, and the 29 indigenous tribes recognized under the Scheduled Tribes Lists Presidential Modification Order, 1956. These tribes, including Thadou, have been acknowledged through initiatives like the ILP Rules, 2022, and the establishment of tribal museums and ethnic huts at Sangai Ethnic Park.

The Thadou people have always been known by this name without prefixes or suffixes recorded consistently in all censuses since 1881. With a population of 215,913 (2011 Census), we are Manipur’s largest tribe. Our identity is integral to our history, and we insist on being recognized solely as Thadou. Any misrepresentation is not only inaccurate but also disrespectful and offensive.

While we are part of the broader Zo/Mizo family, we reject any forced classification that disregards our distinct identity. Labelling the Thadou tribe under any other term, including "Kuki," is unacceptable. The recent understanding between Thadou Inpi Manipur and Meitei Alliance (March 7, 2025, New Delhi) should not be misconstrued as a Meitei and Kuki dialogue.

We urge individuals, organizations, media, and the government to refer to us correctly as Thadou and to acknowledge each Zo/Mizo tribe by its rightful name. We humbly request a formal statement in Parliament recognizing our concerns and affirming our distinct identity.

Peace and kind regards,
Thadou Inpi Manipur