Recognise us solely as Thadou: Thadou Inpi
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, March 27 2025: Making it clear that labelling Thadou tribe under any other term, including 'Kuki', is unacceptable, Thadou Inpi Manipur said that the understanding arrived at between Thadou Inpi Manipur and Meitei Alliance on March 7, in New Delhi should not be misconstrued as a Meitei and Kuki dialogue.

In an open letter addressed to Union Home Minister Amit Shah and people of India, Thadou Inpi Manipur conveyed solidarity in the hour of crisis of families who lost their loved ones in the tragic violence in Manipur and extended deepest empathy to the survivors.

It also hoped for lasting peace, justice, and respect for human rights.

Noting that the violence which broke out May 3, 2023 continues to cause immense suffering to all, particularly the Thadou community, the Thadou Inpi pointed out that 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 29 indigenous tribes recognised 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), Thadou is Manipur's largest tribe," elaborated the open letter, adding that their identity is integral to their history, and insisted on being recognised solely as Thadou.

"Any misrepresentation is not only inaccurate but also disrespectful and offensive," maintained the Inpi.

"While we are part of the broader Zo/Mizo family, we reject any forced classification that disregards our distinct identity," asserted the Inpi, urging individuals, organisations, media, and the government to refer to them correctly as Thadou and to acknowledge each Zo/Mizo tribe by its rightful name.

Thadou Inpi Manipur also appealed for a formal statement in the parliament recognising concerns and distinct identity of the Thadou.

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