UKHRUL: The Thadou Inpi Manipur (TIM) alleged that Thadou community members who wish to attend the upcoming Hun-Thadou Cultural Festival were threatened allegedly by individuals who identify themselves as “Thadous as well as Kuki” or just Kuki.
In a statement, TIM said it has received widespread reports that certain individuals, allegedly identifying themselves as Thadous as well as Kuki or just Kuki, are issuing threats to willing Thadou community members who wish to attend the 8th Manipur State-Level Hun-Thadou Cultural Festival, 2026, scheduled for April 7 in Imphal.
“These individuals are reportedly using the name of armed Kuki militants to intimidate and discourage participation,” TIM stated.
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Expressing “deep regret and disappointment” over such divisive actions, TIM asserted that every Thadou has the fundamental right to life, liberty, and cultural expression.
“We strongly condemn any attempt to create fear, panic, or division within the Thadou community through false threats or misinformation. Such campaigns undermine Thadou unity and cultural pride, and risk further worsening relations between the Thadou people and the Kuki subscribers,” TIM stated.
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It further stated that no individual or group has the right to obstruct Thadous from participating in the legitimate cultural event through coercion or intimidation and cautioned that Thadou Inpi Manipur will not remain a mute spectator if such activities continue.
TIM also called upon all Thadou brothers and sisters to remain united, exercise restraint, and participate freely in the festival as per their wish.
“Let us focus on preserving and promoting our culture rather than allowing divisive forces to weaken us,” it stated.