Imphal: In a rare and potentially pivotal development in conflict-torn Manipur, representatives of the Thadou community and major Meitei civil society organisations held a private meeting in Imphal on Wednesday to explore ways to build mutual understanding and foster lasting peace in the state, officials confirmed.
The closed-door dialogue took place at a hotel in the state capital and brought together over a dozen members of Thadou Inpi Manipur (TIM) — a leading body representing the Thadou people — with key Meitei organisations including the Coordination Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI), Arambai Tenggol, and the All Manipur United Clubs Organisation (AMUCO).
Described by TIM as part of a broader initiative titled “Roadmap to Peace: Covenant of Coexistence on Community Understanding,” the meeting marked the first in-state engagement between the Thadou and Meitei groups since ethnic violence erupted in May 2023.
Previous interactions between the groups had been held in New Delhi.
The discussion focused on creating a shared understanding between communities historically divided by identity politics and violence.
TIM took the opportunity to reassert the distinct identity of the Thadou people, distancing themselves from the larger Kuki ethnic label often associated with them.
“The confusion stems from overlapping cultural traits such as attire and traditions,” TIM stated after the meeting.
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“However, it’s essential to recognise the Thadou as a unique indigenous tribe. The term ‘Kuki’ has evolved into a politicised label, and it no longer reflects the true ethnic identity of our people.”
The group emphasised that acknowledging this distinction is critical to moving forward.
“This is a defining moment for our collective future,” the TIM statement continued.
“Peace in Manipur must begin with clarity of identity, rejection of extremist ideologies, and a sincere commitment to coexistence based on truth and mutual respect.”
