Thadou Inpi Manipur calls out ‘Kuki’ label as political construct in landmark meeting in Imphal

In a significant step toward fostering reconciliation and social cohesion in Manipur, a high-level closed-door meeting was held today in Imphal between delegates of Thadou Inpi Manipur (TIM) and several leading civil society organisations (CSOs).

The historic gathering witnessed the participation of 16 TIM delegates and key representatives from COCOMI (Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity), AMUCO (All Manipur United Clubs Organisation), FOCS (Federation of Civil Society Organisations), Arambai Tenggol, and influential women’s groups. Prominent student organisations including DESAM, KSA, SUK, and AIMS also attended the meeting, underlining the broad-based nature of the discussions.

Speaking briefly during the ongoing dialogue, Waikhom Munindrajit Mangang, a leader from Arambai Tenggol, said the meeting was still in progress and a detailed update would follow once matters are finalised. He, however, confirmed that the central theme of the discussion revolved around lasting peace, reconciliation, and mutual understanding among communities.

Following the meeting, TIM issued a formal press statement, calling the engagement part of a broader initiative for community understanding and identity clarification. The statement stressed the need to reaffirm the indigenous identity of the Thadou tribe, separating it from what it called the politicised usage of the term “Kuki.”

“The Thadou tribe is a distinct indigenous community. The term ‘Kuki’ is not an ethnic identity but rather a politicised and ideological label,” TIM stated. It emphasised that external cultural similarities such as attire and customs should not be mistaken for a shared identity.

The organisation further claimed that the term “Kuki” has foreign origins and alleged that its present usage often aims to advance separatist and extremist ideologies. TIM also pointed to the role of church politics and religious affiliations in the long-standing misclassification of Thadou individuals as Kukis—leading to identity dilution and ethnic tensions.

"This issue extends beyond the Thadou community. It directly affects all indigenous groups in Manipur, including Meiteis and Meitei-Pangals," the statement said, adding that collective action was necessary to preserve cultural authenticity and ensure peace.

The group urged the Thadou community to resist the imposition of the Kuki label and issued a powerful concluding message:
“In truth, we stand. In unity, we endure. In peace, we rebuild.”

Today’s meeting was described by participants as a watershed moment in the effort to address long-standing identity-based issues, reject extremism, and build a more inclusive, peaceful Manipur.