The Thadou Students’ Association (TSA) has expressed strong support for the Government of Manipur’s peace initiatives led by L. Dikho amidst the violence that erupted in 2023. Additionally, the TSA congratulated L. Dikho on his appointment as Deputy Chief Minister of Manipur on February 4. The association emphasized the identity of Motbung, a village inhabited by the Thadou people and clarified that it is not a Kuki village, rejecting any misidentification.
L. Dikho’s genuine connection with the Motbung community was highlighted during his first visit to the Motbung Baptist Church in 2019 for a Pre-Christmas program, demonstrating mutual respect and affection. TSA described the bond between L. Dikho and the Motbung community as a genuine display of humanity rather than a political connection.
The organization noted that the Intra-Motbung Village Sports Meet 2026 was planned prior to the formation of the current government, with L. Dikho scheduled to be the Chief Guest on February 7, as arranged by the Motbung Youth Club. The TSA condemned the incorrect media portrayal in The Sangai Express, which labeled this event as a “Kuki event,” arguing that such mischaracterization undermines the distinct identities of the Thadou and Kuki communities and violates ethnic affiliations.
The TSA asserted that both communities maintain unique identities that cannot be conflated, declaring that Motbung firmly belongs to the Thadou people. It urged all parties to respect the current government’s mandate, as outlined by the Constitution of India, within the framework of democracy. The TSA looks forward to L. Dikho’s participation in the sporting event and reiterated its commitment to supporting the Motbung Youth Club in organizing this significant community initiative.
