Imphal: The Thadou tribe, one of the most longstanding and populous non-Naga communities in Manipur, has announced its support for the state government’s plans to implement the National Register of Citizens (NRC) in the state.
This endorsement, along with support for the state’s “War on Drugs” campaign, was finalized during the Thadou Convention 2024, held in Guwahati on November 1 and 2.
In a press statement, the Thadou Convention Guwahati Organizing Committee (TCGOC) 2024 expressed its views on the significance of the proposed NRC exercise. “We are of the view that the proposed exercise is aimed at securing Indian national interest and safeguarding the rights, welfare, and interests of the citizens and indigenous communities,” the committee stated.
The TCGOC emphasized that they see the NRC as a protective measure for the rights and well-being of Manipur’s residents, acknowledging the state government’s commitment to addressing the concerns of its citizens.
The Thadou community also highlighted a key issue concerning the NRC process: ensuring that legitimate citizens of the state are not wrongfully stripped of their citizenship or residency rights. With many tribal communities lacking comprehensive documentation, the TCGOC urged the Manipur government to carefully address documentation guidelines for citizenship verification before the NRC process begins. Such an approach, they believe, would protect tribal members from unintended exclusion due to gaps in record-keeping.
In addition to its support for the NRC, the Thadou tribe reaffirmed its commitment to tackling the region’s drug crisis, which has severely impacted communities across Manipur. The “War on Drugs” campaign, spearheaded by the Manipur government, aims to combat drug-related challenges with wide-ranging social and economic consequences. The TCGOC called for stronger community involvement, strategic planning, and targeted actions to ensure that the campaign yields meaningful socio-economic and environmental results.
The committee also encouraged all stakeholders to unite behind these state-led initiatives, envisioning a more prosperous and secure future for Manipur. By aligning its support with these government programs, the Thadou tribe looks forward to contributing to a safer, more inclusive environment for the state and its people.
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