Churachandpur, Sept 5, 2025: The Thadou Students’ Association (TSA) has raised strong objections over what it calls the “misrepresentation” of Thadou culture in the upcoming VVIP visit to Churachandpur, reportedly scheduled for September 13.
In a media release issued Friday, the TSA stated that cultural programs planned for the event are being incorrectly labeled as “Kuki Cultural Dance.” The Association clarified that no such cultural form exists, and what is being showcased is the Thadou Cultural Dance, a traditional heritage of the Thadou people.
“Kuki is not an ethnic identity but a political ideology, often linked to separatist groups. Associating Thadou cultural expressions with this ideology amounts to cultural genocide,” the statement asserted.
The TSA further highlighted what it described as continued marginalisation of the Thadou community, citing:
• The assassination of Thadou leader Nehkam Jomhao in Assam by SoO signatory militants.
• Census 2011 data showing Thadous as the largest Scheduled Tribe in Churachandpur (23.74%) compared to “Any Kuki tribes” (4.84%).
• The presence of 16 Kuki militant groups under the SoO agreement, which the TSA said undermines Thadou identity and indigenous rights.
The Association demanded immediate correction of the program schedule to reflect “Thadou Cultural Dance,” along with official recognition of the Thadou identity in all public and government records.
Reaffirming its stand for peace and democratic recognition, the TSA warned against what it described as attempts to erase Thadou heritage under ideological labels.
