Imphal: The Thadou Community International (TCI) has expressed its support for the Government of India’s recent initiatives aimed at restoring peace and stability in Manipur, following nearly two years of unrest.
In a statement, the TCI welcomed the decisions taken during a high-level security review meeting chaired by Union Home Minister Amit Shah on March 1, 2025. The community emphasized the importance of implementing these measures inclusively and transparently to ensure their long-term success.
One of the key government decisions, allowing free movement on all roads from March 8, 2025, was hailed by TCI as a vital step toward relieving the communities suffering from ongoing disruptions. The government has also assured that strict action will be taken against any attempts to obstruct public movement, a move expected to restore normalcy in the region.
The focus on strengthening border security and dismantling extortion and drug trafficking networks has also been recognized by TCI as crucial for long-term stability. These measures are expected to enhance national security while fostering socio-economic development for future generations.
Despite welcoming these efforts, TCI underscored the need for an inclusive and just approach to peacebuilding. In its statement, the organization emphasized that sustainable peace can only be achieved through dialogue, trust-building, and fair representation of all communities. “History has shown that sustainable peace is built on justice, inclusion, and meaningful engagement with affected communities,” the statement read. TCI called on all stakeholders, including government authorities, civil society groups, and community leaders, to collaborate in a spirit of cooperation to ensure a peaceful and prosperous future for Manipur.
Additionally, the organization reaffirmed the distinct ethnic identity of the Thadou people, emphasizing that they are a separate and independent entity from the Kuki community. TCI raised concerns over the misrepresentation of Thadou identity and called for the accurate recognition of all ethnic groups in Manipur as essential for fostering long-term peace and reconciliation. “Thadou is not Kuki, or underneath Kuki, or part of Kuki, but a separate, independent entity from Kuki,” the statement emphasized, referring to the Thadou Convention Declaration – 2024.
The TCI also reiterated its commitment to supporting peace, security, and development initiatives in Manipur, and urged the Government of India to engage with the Thadou community in the decision-making process to ensure their voices are heard. “We stand ready to engage in constructive dialogue with relevant authorities and civil society organizations to contribute toward a peaceful and harmonious future,” the statement concluded.
As Manipur works towards reconciliation and stability, inclusive governance, recognition of diverse identities, and collaborative peace-building efforts will be key to ensuring lasting peace in the state.
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