Imphal: Key representatives of the Thadou community and several Meitei civil society organisations held a joint meeting at Imphal on Wednesday to discuss the restoration of peace and the rehabilitation of those displaced by the ongoing ethnic conflict.
A 16-member delegation from Thadou Inpi Manipur arrived at Bir Tikendrajit International Airport around 9 am and was received by members of the Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity and personnel from the Manipur Police. The delegates later checked in at The Classic Hotel, Imphal, where the meeting was conducted.
Other than the coordinating committee, Meitei civil society organisations including the All Manipur United Clubs’ Organisation, the Federation of Civil Societies, and Arambai Tengol other student’s body participated in the closed-door talks. Sources familiar with the development described the meeting as “crucial” and “constructive.”
The meeting focused on exploring strategies to restore peace and normalcy in the state, with special attention to the rehabilitation of internally displaced persons belonging to both Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities.
The Thadou delegation comprised J.K. Singsun, Minthang P, Samuel, C. Laltanpui, James Thadou, Thangminlum, Joshur, Dr. M. Paosei, Jamkholun, Manggr, T. Michael Lamjathang Haokip, Mehkholal, Mangminlal, Mangchungmeng, Nelkam, and Janglen.
This visit marked the first time since the outbreak of ethnic violence on May 3, 2023, that Thadou representatives have entered the valley districts, particularly Imphal, for a public engagement. It was also the second such meeting between Thadou and Meitei representatives, with the first having taken place in Guwahati, Assam, earlier this year.
A statement issued by Thadou Inpi Manipur denounced the appropriation of Thadou culture by groups identifying as Kuki, describing such actions as divisive and a threat to the unity of Manipur, which includes Meitei, Meitei-Pangal, and other tribal communities. The organisation urged Thadou individuals to dissociate themselves from what it termed the “flawed Kuki ideology” and instead pursue lawful, patient, and inclusive paths to protect their indigenous identity and foster social harmony.
“This is a defining moment in our shared history,” the statement read. “The path to lasting peace in Manipur begins with clarity of identity, rejection of extremism, and a renewed commitment to coexistence.” The statement concluded with a unified message “In truth, we stand. In unity, we endure. In peace, we rebuild.”
Arambai Tengol representative Munindro who attended the meeting told reporters that the meeting was a roadmap for ‘one’ but yet to be finalised.
