Northeast Desk, 21st October: The apex body of the Tangkhul community, Tangkhul Naga Long (TNL), based in Manipur, has expressed its strong disapproval of a public speech made by Manipur’s Chief Minister, N. Biren Singh, during his recent visit to Ukhrul district. In his speech, the Chief Minister commented on the blood relation between the Tangkhul Naga and the majority Meitei communities in Manipur.
In response to these remarks, TNL has issued a statement, stating that it does not recognize the authority of Chief Minister N. Biren Singh to define the blood relation of the Tangkhul tribe. The statement by TNL aims to address the confusion and outrage stemming from the Chief Minister’s visit.
The statement from the apex Tangkhul civil body reads, “TNL as the apex Tangkhul body is in no way connected to the State cabinet meeting held in Ukhrul during the CM’s visit. It is also not a party to the joint memorandum submitted by certain Tangkhul CSOs. TNL welcomes and appreciates every move by the state government regarding development works in the district. At the same time, it must be understood that the State government is merely doing its mandated duty and not bestowing any extraordinary largesse to us.”
The statement further clarifies TNL’s stance on the Chief Minister’s declaration: “Regarding the public declaration by the chief minister about Tangkhul and Meitei being brothers, TNL is compelled to remind that it does not recognize the authority of N Biren Singh to define the blood relation of the Tangkhul tribe – either as head of state government or in his individual capacity. Such a declaration holds no bearing for and meaning of TNL.”
It also highlights the need for a more nuanced understanding: “TNL also does not dismiss or disregard instances of relationships between certain families or clans of Tangkhul and Meitei communities. However, trying to blanket the entire Tangkhul community under one such stray historical and genealogical definition is bereft of any sound logic.”
The statement emphasizes TNL’s self-awareness and its place within the Naga nation. It states, “TNL and the Tangkhul community are competent enough to know our own history. We also believe in our destiny as an integral part of the Naga nation and do not wish our land to become a Summer Capital, second or any other Capital of Manipur.”