Churachandpur, July 8, 2025: The Thadou Inpi Manipur (TIM), the apex civil body representing the Thadou community in Manipur, has issued a strong statement condemning the recent directive issued by Kuki Inpi Manipur (KIM), calling it unconstitutional, overreaching, and a violation of democratic norms. The condemnation follows a resolution by KIM, dated 5th July 2025, that allegedly sought to restrict the participation of elected representatives in the formation of a popular government in Manipur.
In its media release, TIM clarified that KIM has no authority over the Thadou people, who are a distinct indigenous tribe constitutionally recognized and separately listed in the Scheduled Tribes (ST) category, with a population of 2.16 lakh (2011 Census) - the largest among hill tribes in the state.
TIM asserted that the term “Kuki-Zo” applies solely to those holding the “Any Kuki Tribes (AKT)” ST certificate, which initially recorded only 28,342 individuals in Manipur. In contrast, the Thadou community has maintained its own independent identity and institutions since the late 19th century and has never been a part of the KIM or its affiliated bodies such as KSO and KKL.
It further reiterated that the term "Inpi" is of Thadou origin, referring to community institutions with no political jurisdiction. “Kuki Inpi Manipur cannot assume supra-political powers or issue extra-constitutional diktats, especially to MLAs who do not belong to their community,” the statement added.
TIM also accused KIM of historical distortion, citing its renaming of the “Thadou War of 1917–1919” as the “Anglo-Kuki War”, and criticized KIM for lobbying for official recognition of the term “Kuki Rising,” which TIM argues undermines the Thadou's contribution and legacy.
The body further claimed that KIM was responsible for pushing the inclusion of “Any Kuki Tribes” into the ST list in 2003, which TIM views as a direct threat to the distinct and legally recognized identity of the Thadou people, especially amid concerns of demographic manipulation and political marginalization.
Referring to current political developments, TIM noted that among the ten Zo MLAs supporting the Separate Administration (SA) demand in Manipur, three are Thadou ST certificate holders: Nemcha Kipgen, Letpao Haokip, and Haokholet Kipgen. TIM declared that no external body, including KIM, has any right to pressure or intimidate these legislators in their constitutional duties, especially concerning government formation.
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“If any Thadou ST certificate holder wishes to identify as Kuki, they must obtain an AKT certificate. No one should misuse or distort the Thadou identity for political convenience,” the statement said.
TIM warned that if KIM’s actions are found to obstruct democratic processes or public functionaries, they may invite criminal prosecution under various Indian laws, including the Representation of the People Act, Indian Penal Code/BNS, and Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, for offences ranging from intimidation and criminal conspiracy to sedition.
Concluding its statement, the Thadou Inpi Manipur reaffirmed its commitment to peace, democracy, and the harmonious coexistence of all indigenous communities in Manipur.
The statement was signed by Manggou Thadou, Joint General Secretary of Thadou Inpi Manipur.
