Imphal: The Thadou Students’ Association, General Headquarters (TSA-GHQ), has strongly condemned the attacks on the residence of its President, T. Michael Lamjathang Haokip, in Peniel Village, Churachandpur, Manipur. The assault, which occurred on Saturday noon, marks the second attack in just five days, with the previous incident taking place on August 25.
The first attack on his residence was reported on May 7, 2023, following an attempted assassination on April 28, 2023, in Churachandpur, allegedly by suspected armed Kuki militants. TSA-GHQ believed these assaults are part of a series of coordinated actions by organized groups with a Kuki supremacist agenda. The association also criticized the local law enforcement for their failure to prevent these attacks and hold those responsible accountable.
TSA has condemned the repeated attacks, including assassination attempts, arson, vandalism, firing, and assaults on Michael’s home, and has called for justice. The association noted that the attacks have not only targeted Michael but also his innocent family, including his elderly parents. TSA-GHQ described these actions as deliberate attempts to spread fear and further an agenda of domination and control.
According to the association, the attacks on Michael and his family represent a broader assault on the Thadou tribe and its ethnic identity. Despite multiple assassination attempts and threats from Kuki militant groups, including videos circulating online, Michael continues to stand firm in his commitment to the Thadou community. He also currently serves as a spokesperson for the BJP in Manipur.
TSA-GHQ highlighted the adverse impact of numerous Kuki armed groups on the Thadou community in Manipur, which has faced significant threats to its unique identity due to unlawful supremacist activities. Lacking an armed organization of its own, the Thadou community has been left vulnerable. Amid these challenges, T. Michael Lamjathang Haokip has emerged as a determined leader dedicated to safeguarding the Thadou community.
Michael is widely respected for his integrity, bravery, and unwavering commitment to the welfare of the Thadou people in Northeast India and Myanmar. His ultimate aim is to protect and promote the customs, culture, traditions, and language of the Thadou community against hostile forces.
In his efforts to defend his community, Michael and his family have faced significant threats, intimidation, and persecution from Kuki militants and extremists. An FIR has been filed concerning the recent attacks. TSA-GHQ has declared it will no longer tolerate human rights violations by Kuki supremacists and expressed solidarity with Michael’s family, commending their resilience and courage in the face of ongoing threats.
The association stressed the responsibility of the Government of India to protect Michael, his family, and the Thadou community. TSA-GHQ is hopeful for a positive response from the Central Government regarding the memorandum submitted to the Union Home Minister on August 30, 2024.
Meanwhile, Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh Saturday strongly condemned the arson attack at Lamjathang’s parent’s residence for the third time on Saturday noon.
The repeated targeting of our people (Thadou in this case), often under the guise of peace rallies, is a deeply troubling trend, the Chief Minister said on X handle.
Biren said such acts of provocation will not be tolerated and will ensure that those responsible are held accountable. The Chief Minister also warned action against concerned officials who failed to provide adequate security, despite prior warnings of potential threats.
