Imphal

The Manipur government gained support from the Thadou community, which has clarified that it is distinct from the Kuki community. The Thadou community now endorses the implementation of the National Register of Citizens (NRC) in the state to protect indigenous peoples. This backing aligns with the BJP government and the majority Meitei community’s calls for the NRC to address illegal migration, particularly from Myanmar.

At a recent two-day convention in Guwahati, the Thadou community resolved to support the NRC if the Indian government initiates it in Manipur. They emphasized that the NRC would help secure the interests and rights of Indian citizens and indigenous groups. TCGOC leaders Nehkholal Haokip and Mangminlal Sitthou stressed the need for effective implementation while addressing the concerns of tribal communities about documentation proof for citizenship.

The Thadou community also expressed their commitment to combatting the drug crisis affecting all groups in Manipur. They acknowledged the government’s War on Drugs initiative and urged for more effective community involvement in this campaign. Recognizing themselves as one of the original indigenous tribes of Manipur, the Thadou community insisted on being identified correctly, without any association to the Kuki label. They called for peace and non-violent resolutions to the ongoing ethnic conflicts in the region, underscoring their unique culture and identity.