Thadou Inpi Manipur (TIM) has expressed strong objections to the use of the term “Kuki-Zo-Hmar MLAs” in a press release by the Directorate of Information and Public Relations (DIPR) Manipur on March 9. This label was assigned to six MLAs representing various Assembly Constituencies in Manipur. TIM condemned this use of “communal and ethnic labeling,” emphasizing that elected officials should represent all constituents, not be categorized by ethnicity or community affiliation. Such terminology, it argues, sets a dangerous precedent that could divide the Assembly along ethnic lines and undermine democratic values.
TIM asserts that this kind of labeling threatens the constitutional integrity of representation in the Assembly, which should serve all citizens without discrimination. During a time when Manipur is in need of leadership to mend divisions and restore trust, TIM argues that the government’s communication only serves to deepen communal fractures and hinder governance. They called on the government to maintain the Assembly’s dignity, neutrality, and inclusivity.
Furthermore, TIM has raised alarms about the potential for “Kuki” labeling to perpetuate violence and misrepresentation of the diverse tribal communities in Manipur, including the Thadou. They express that using “Kuki” fails to recognize the distinct identities of indigenous tribes, further complicating the socio-political landscape.
During the Legislative Assembly sessions, certain MLAs displayed a willingness to engage with the process, even after previously advocating for separate administration under Article 239A, which TIM considers a positive step toward fulfilling their constitutional duties. However, they maintain that such misidentification of communities—especially labeling diverse tribes under a vague term—is unacceptable and should not occur in official communications.
In conclusion, TIM emphasized that respecting the identities of Manipur’s indigenous peoples is crucial for truth, dignity, and justice, paramount to preserving the integrity of the state’s multi-ethnic character. Hence, they called on the DIPR to issue a public apology to the citizens of Manipur to prevent similar mistakes in the future.