TIM gives KIK 48 hrs to retract diktats
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, August 16 2025: Thadou Inpi Manipur (TIM), the apex body of Thadou tribe in Manipur, on Friday issued an ultimatum to the Kuki Inpi Karnataka (KIK) to withdraw within 48 hours its diktats and social boycott against members of Thadou tribe.

Reaffirming that Thadou people are a distinct tribal community, TIM stated, "We are not Kuki, nor are we part of the 'Any Kuki tribes' category on Manipur's Scheduled Tribes list".

It asserted that the Thadou Inpi Manipur is the community's recognised apex body and no Kuki organisation, including the Kuki Inpi Karnataka or Kuki Inpi Manipur, has authority over the Thadou people or their affairs, individually or collectively.

The statement came after KIK announced a social boycott on August 14 against three Thadou individuals for participating in the "Road to Peace: Covenant of Understanding between TIM and Manipur CSOs" held on August 6 .

TIM said that the initiative was a lawful and noble effort toward community understanding and peaceful coexistence with no connection to Kuki groups.

Rejecting any attempt to impose a Kuki identity, TIM said that Thadous are lawful residents and citizens subject only to the Indian Constitution, not to what it described as illegal Kuki diktats.

It termed KIK's announcement baseless, illegal and without jurisdiction, and warned it would pursue justice to the fullest extent of the law.

Questioning the authority of Kuki groups to dictate terms to the Thadou community, TIM said, "While the Kuki Inpi may hold authority over its members, they have none over the Thadou tribal community".

It warned that failure to withdraw the diktats within 48 hours would be considered a direct affront to the Constitution of India and the rights of the Thadou people, compelling TIM to seek immediate justice from constitutional authorities.

Calling the actions of KIK a violation of the Constitution of India and a threat to the coun-try's constitutional and democratic integrity, TIM demanded a public clarification from Kuki Inpi Karnataka, Kuki Inpi Manipur and other like-minded groups on their stance regarding Indian citizenship.

"If they believe they are above the laws of India, they must publicly declare their nationality or citizenship," it demanded.

TIM reiterated that Thadou people remain resolute in their commitment to upholding the Constitution of India, protecting their rights and identity, and fostering enduring peace in Manipur and across the country.

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