Tribal Ministry Urged to Delete 'Any Kuki Tribes' Category from Manipur's ST List
In a significant political and tribal development, the Thadou Inpi Manipur—the apex body representing the Thadou tribal community—has formally urged the Union Ministry of Tribal Affairs to remove the category "Any Kuki Tribes" from Manipur's Scheduled Tribes (ST) list.
This appeal comes amid growing concerns over ethnic conflict, identity dilution, and alleged misuse of the ambiguous classification.
Background: Why the Controversy?
The term “Any Kuki Tribes” has been part of the Scheduled Tribes list since 2003, broadly encompassing various Kuki clans. However, the Thadou Inpi claims this generic classification:
Dilutes distinct tribal identities such as the Thadou tribe.
Overlaps with other specific Kuki sub-tribes already listed.
Enables misuse of tribal benefits by non-indigenous or undocumented persons.
Raises concerns about national security, especially amid ongoing ethnic tensions in the state.
Memorandum Highlights
The memorandum, addressed to the Governor of Manipur and the Ministry of Tribal Affairs, includes the following demands:
Immediate deletion of the “Any Kuki Tribes” category.
A review of Scheduled Tribe classifications to protect tribal rights.
Inclusion of human rights protections for non-Kuki tribes in areas impacted by Kuki militancy.
Formation of an ethnic reconciliation committee to address tribal grievances.
Political & Ethnic Backdrop
Manipur has witnessed deepening ethnic violence since May 2023, primarily between Meitei and Kuki-Zo groups. Over 60,000 people have been displaced, and inter-tribal trust has deteriorated.
In this volatile climate, Thadou leaders argue that a vague tribal classification such as “Any Kuki Tribes” only fuels social unrest, illegal migration, and political favoritism.
State & Centre Response So Far
In 2023, earlier representations on the matter were reportedly forwarded to the Registrar General of India (RGI).
The Chief Minister of Manipur, N. Biren Singh, had proposed setting up a committee to examine ST demands, but no action on the “Any Kuki Tribes” category has yet been taken.
Kuki-Zo civil society groups have strongly opposed any delisting, stating it undermines their constitutional and tribal rights.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What is the ‘Any Kuki Tribes’ category?
A: It is a broad classification under Manipur’s Scheduled Tribes list that refers to unspecified Kuki tribal groups. Critics say it’s vague and opens the door to misuse.
Q2: Who is demanding its removal?
A: The demand is being led by Thadou Inpi Manipur, representing the Thadou tribe, one of the largest Kuki subgroups.
Q3: What are the main reasons for the demand?
A: Concerns over identity dilution, administrative ambiguity, potential misuse of tribal benefits, and security risks.
Q4: Is this the first time such a request has been made?
A: No. Similar representations were submitted in 2023 and earlier, but formal deletion has not occurred.
Q5: What could be the impact if the category is removed?
A: It may lead to further legal and political contestation, especially among other Kuki-Zo tribes that rely on the classification for constitutional protections.
Published on: June 24, 2025
Uploaded by: PAVAN
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