Roadmap to Peace: Thadou and Meitei Groups Forge New Understanding in Manipur

Representatives of the Thadou tribe and Meitei-based civil groups held a landmark meeting in Imphal to discuss a 'Covenant of Coexistence.' This event marked their first encounter since May 2023 violence in Manipur. The meeting aimed to clarify tribal identities and address past misunderstandings, fostering a pathway to peace.

In a bid to restore harmony in Manipur, a pivotal meeting transpired between Thadou tribe representatives and Meitei civil groups. Held on Wednesday, the discussion took place behind closed doors in Imphal, a city that has witnessed significant unrest in recent months.

The meeting, branded a 'Roadmap to Peace: Covenant of Coexistence on Community Understanding,' brought together more than 13 members of the Thadou Inpi Manipur (TIM) and key Meitei groups such as the Coordination Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI) and All Manipur United Clubs Organisation (AMUCO). Their focus was on bridging community divides exacerbated by violence since May 2023.

The Thadou Inpi Manipur emphasised the distinction between the Thadou tribe and the Kuki group—a source of historical confusion due to cultural similarities. The TIM statement urged clarity on identity as a foundation for peace, rejecting extremism and committing to coexistence as a path forward.

(With inputs from agencies.)