Imphal, April 25: Thadou Inpi Manipur (TIM), the apex body of the Thadou tribe in Manipur, has expressed deep concern over the escalating violence between Kuki and Naga groups in the state, warning that the situation threatens lives, disrupts communities, and undermines peace.
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In a media release issued on Friday, the organisation said it was particularly alarmed by the potential spread of violence and the growing risks faced by the Thadou community due to frequent misidentification and proximity to conflict zones.
TIM noted that following the recent killing of two Tangkhul Naga civilians along Ukhrul Road, tensions have further escalated with fears of retaliatory attacks, displacement of villagers, and heightened insecurity across the state.
The organisation cautioned that repeated cycles of violence could lead to severe humanitarian and social consequences for all communities in Manipur and warned against a repeat of the prolonged Kuki–Naga clashes witnessed in the 1990s.
Condemning all forms of violence, Thadou Inpi Manipur called on all parties involved to exercise restraint and pursue dialogue, mutual understanding, and non-violent methods to resolve conflicts.
The organisation also urged both sides not to target or involve the Thadou community in the ongoing tensions and advised members of the community to remain neutral and avoid participation in any form of violence.
Additionally, TIM expressed concern that authorities have failed to act on warnings from Thadou organisations about the dangers of politicising ethnic identity for political gains.
The organisation criticised the government’s handling of recent killings, stating that reliance on announcements of ex-gratia compensation without ensuring accountability has eroded public trust and deepened fear and suspicion among affected communities.
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Reaffirming its commitment to peace, communal harmony, and the protection of all communities, Thadou Inpi Manipur called on civil society organisations, community leaders, and authorities to take urgent steps to de-escalate tensions and ensure the safety of citizens.
The body further emphasised that in Manipur’s multi-ethnic society, all communities must coexist with mutual respect and reject violence to preserve unity, dignity, and peaceful coexistence.
