The Thadou Inpi Manipur and leaders of the Thadou community have expressed deep anger and grief over the killing of three Thadou church leaders in a targeted armed ambush in Kangpokpi district, while strongly objecting to references identifying the victims as “Kuki” instead of Thadou.

The attack claimed the lives of Dr. Rev. Vumthang Sitlhou, President of the Thadou Baptist Association India (TBAI), Rev. Kaigoulun and Pastor Paogoulen. Five other TBA church pastors and workers sustained gunshot injuries and are currently undergoing treatment at Shija Hospitals and Research Institute.

In a statement, the Thadou community conveyed gratitude to organisations, institutions, public representatives and several Chief Ministers and Ministers who extended solidarity following the attack on the so-called “Tiger–German” Road in Kangpokpi district.

At the same time, the statement strongly asserted that the victims were ethnically Thadou and not Kuki, describing any contrary references as inaccurate and offensive to the bereaved community. It urged all concerned to respect the distinct identity of the Thadou people and avoid using terms such as “Kuki” or “Thadou-Kuki” in reference to them.

The statement further highlighted the contributions of Dr. Rev. Vumthang, describing him as a respected church leader, peace advocate and a strong supporter of Thadou identity and unity. It said he played a key role in promoting the translation of the Holy Bible in the Thadou language and worked towards strengthening unity among Thadou Christians globally through the proposed Global Thadou Christian Congress scheduled for October this year.

According to the statement, Dr. Rev. Vumthang had also clarified that he neither attended nor consented to participate in the “Kuki Zo Flag” hoisting ceremony held on May 9 at the Kuki Christian Church Community Hall, despite his name being listed among ministers for the event.

The statement further noted that Dr. Rev. Vumthang and TBA leadership had been working towards the formation of a United Baptist Convention comprising various Baptist bodies without incorporating the term “Kuki” in its name. It alleged that disagreements over naming led to the withdrawal of Kuki church groups from the initiative.

The Thadou body stated that the three slain leaders have been declared “Thadou Martyrs” by Thadou Inpi Manipur and appealed for their identity and dignity to be respected. It also urged against politicisation of the incident and opposed any attempt to alter plans for burial of the victims at the TBA compound in Kangpokpi.